Proposed Blockbuster Trade Sends \$53 Million Lakers Guard Austin Reaves to San Antonio Spurs
In a bold and potentially franchise-altering trade scenario, the Los Angeles Lakers are rumored to be considering sending rising guard **Austin Reaves** to the **San Antonio Spurs** in exchange for future assets and additional cap flexibility. The move, while not official, has sparked widespread debate across the NBA landscape, as Reaves has quickly developed into one of the league’s most promising young guards and a fan favorite in Los Angeles.
Reaves, 26, signed a **four-year, \$53 million contract** with the Lakers in the summer of 2023 after emerging as a breakout contributor during the team’s 2022–23 playoff run. Known for his high basketball IQ, playmaking skills, and clutch shot-making, Reaves has become a key complementary piece alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. In the 2024–25 season, he averaged **15.2 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game**, all while maintaining efficient shooting percentages and showing continual growth as a two-way player.
However, with the Lakers under pressure to retool their roster and remain competitive in a loaded Western Conference, general manager Rob Pelinka may be willing to part with Reaves in exchange for long-term flexibility or to pursue another star. The proposed deal could involve the Spurs sending a combination of **draft picks, young talent**, and potential salary fillers, giving the Lakers the opportunity to reshape their roster around their aging core.
For the **San Antonio Spurs**, this trade would pair Reaves with **generational big man Victor Wembanyama**, forming a dynamic young duo. Reaves’ ability to play both on and off the ball, create for others, and defend multiple positions makes him an ideal backcourt partner for the Spurs’ evolving offensive system. With Wembanyama as the franchise cornerstone, adding a versatile guard like Reaves could accelerate San Antonio’s return to playoff contention.
From a financial standpoint, the trade is manageable for both teams. Reaves’ \$53 million contract is considered team-friendly relative to his production and potential, making him an appealing asset for a team like San Antonio with cap space and a long-term outlook.
Though still speculative, this trade idea reflects the Lakers’ urgency to maximize their title window and the Spurs’ intent to build a competitive core around Wembanyama. If this scenario gains traction, it could mark one of the most talked-about moves of the offseason.
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