NBA Notes: Lakers, Austin Reaves, Nets, Keon Ellis, Magic

Lakers

The Lakers have formally re-signed Austin Reaves, locking up one of the franchise’s biggest offseason priorities after agreeing to terms on a new deal late last month.

“Austin’s relentless pursuit of improvement, fierce competitiveness and commitment to winning have made him an integral part of our organization,” president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to continue building with him as a cornerstone of our team as we pursue our championship goals.”

Reaves agreed to a four-year, maximum contract reportedly worth about $185 million after declining his player option for next season.

The former undrafted guard averaged a career-high 23.3 points while continuing his rise alongside Luka Doncic, making him one of the most coveted free agents who never actually reached the open market.

Nets

Keon Ellis believes Brooklyn was the right fit from the start.

The veteran guard said his familiarity with coach Jordi Fernandez played a major role in his decision to sign with the Nets after the two worked together in Sacramento.

“From what I heard, he was pulling for me really hard,” Ellis said, via Brian Lewis of the New York Post. “I know the way he coaches. He’s very passionate. He’s about the right things. He wants to win.”

Ellis agreed to a two-year, $18 million contract and expects his defense and outside shooting to fit well with Brooklyn’s young roster.

“When you combine all those things, they just lined up,” he said.

Magic

Nikola Vucevic hopes his return to Orlando has more than just sentimental value.

The veteran center told reporters he came back because he believes the Magic are ready to make a deeper playoff run after several years of steady progress.

“It’s one of the reasons I came back,” Vucevic said, via Matt Murschel of the Orlando Sentinel. “This team has a chance to take the next step and go deep into the playoffs.”

Vucevic spent more than eight seasons with the Magic before being traded to Chicago in 2021. Now back in Orlando, he’d love nothing more than to help the franchise advance beyond the first round for the first time since 2010.

And while Vucevic acknowledged he’s in the later stages of his career, the 35-year-old said retirement isn’t on his mind just yet.

“Hopefully,” he said, “I can stay in Orlando for a few years.”