Austin Reaves Forces Lakers' Trade-or-Keep Dilemma

Merlin sees the Lakers facing a sharp dilemma: Austin Reaves has exploded out of the gate — a 28-point night, a career-high 16 assists and a game-winning floater — turning him into both a glue guy now and a much pricier free-agent target later. He “holds a $14.9 million player option for the 2026-27 season. Spoiler alert: He's going to decline it,” and L.A.’s cap reality makes a lucrative extend unlikely, forcing a trade-or-keep choice. Merlin notes suitors like Dallas, Detroit and Houston could build compelling offers — from star-chasing swaps to pick-heavy futures or role-player packages — but none are easy given matching-salary and apron limits. If the Lakers get healthier and look like contenders, patience wins; if they falter, selling high makes sense. Magic favors timing.