LeBron, Doncic… and now Reaves: how an undrafted player commands $30 million per year
Apr 25, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) dribbles the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves during game three of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images
Austin Reaves is about to hit the jackpot. According to several NBA executives interviewed by ESPN, the Los Angeles Lakers guard is expected to sign a contract extension worth over $30 million per season. A well-deserved reward for someone who has become one of the most inspiring stories of the California franchise.
REPORT: Austin Reaves is expected to re-sign with the Lakers, solidifying his long-term role alongside Luka Dončić, per ESPN.
His deal is projected to exceed $30M per year. pic.twitter.com/Xp9UPJ7d1F
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) August 6, 2025
From undrafted player to Lakers cornerstone
Austin Reaves’ rise commands respect. Arriving in the NBA undrafted, the 27-year-old has climbed the ranks season after season to become the third most important player on the roster, behind untouchables LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
Last season marked a turning point in his career. Reaves reached new heights by setting personal records with 20.2 points and 5.8 assists per game. These statistics demonstrate his consistent evolution and growing importance in the Lakers’ system. « I think he’ll get more than 30, » an NBA executive told ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, « echoing several front office sources questioned about the next contract Reaves could obtain. »
A decisive season despite playoff struggles
Despite his excellent regular season performance, Austin Reaves struggled during the 2025 playoffs. Against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round, he shot only 31.9% from 3-point range, and the Lakers posted a -10.1 point differential with him on the court.
These underwhelming performances remind the California executives of the importance of not repeating the mistake made with Alex Caruso in 2021. The departure of the latter, who has since become a key piece of the champion Oklahoma City Thunder puzzle, still haunts the franchise.
Austin Reaves still has one guaranteed year on his current contract, plus a player option at $14.9 million that he logically shouldn’t exercise. The general expectation remains that the Arkansas native will extend his purple and gold journey, confirming his status as a cornerstone of the roster for years to come.
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