Austin Reaves appears headed for a massive payday.
According to Dan Woike of The Athletic, the Nets are expected to make a full maximum-contract offer to the Lakers guard when free agency opens later this month.
Woike reported that Brooklyn is among several teams preparing to pursue Reaves, with the Pistons and Hawks also believed to have interest if they create the necessary cap space.
The Lakers, however, still hold an important advantage.
As Woike noted, Los Angeles will receive an exclusive negotiating window with Reaves immediately after the NBA Finals conclude and before free agency officially begins on June 30. The expectation is that the Lakers will attempt to work out a new agreement before rival teams have a chance to make their pitch.
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Reaves is widely expected to decline his player option for next season, setting himself up for what could easily become the largest contract of his career.
The 27-year-old continued his rise this past season, averaging a career-best 23.3 points, 5.5 assists and 4.7 rebounds despite dealing with injuries. While his postseason numbers dipped after returning from an oblique injury, league executives continue to view him as one of the NBA’s most valuable secondary playmakers.
According to Woike, Reaves would prefer to remain in Los Angeles, where he has developed strong relationships with Luka Doncic, LeBron James and coach JJ Redick.
Still, money matters.
And after outperforming previous contracts throughout his NBA career, Reaves appears poised to finally cash in.
The Lakers would undoubtedly prefer to keep one of their most important players. But if Reaves reaches the open market, competition for his services is expected to be fierce.
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