The Los Angeles Lakers face a decision on Austin Reaves’ future with the guard headed for a new lucrative contract. Lakers fans need not fret as Reaves is still technically under contract for another two NBA seasons.

Things are a little more complicated as Reaves can opt out of his current four-year, $53.8 million contract in 2026. Smart money is on Reaves testing NBA free agency next offseason given his current team-friendly deal.

The ideal scenario for the Lakers is to sign Reaves to an extension. Another path has Los Angeles exploring potential trades for Reaves.

Let’s dive into whether Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton could be a fit for the Lakers if the franchise cuts ties with Reaves.

Lakers Rumors: NBA Trade Pitch Has LA Swap Austin Reaves for Nets Center Nic Claxton

Sports Illustrated’s Thomas Carelli floated a potential trade proposal that has the Lakers sending Reaves and Gabe Vincent to the Nets. Los Angeles acquires Claxton, a 2027 first-round selection and a 2029 first-round pick swap in the deal.

The analyst makes the argument for why the Lakers would consider a Reaves for Claxton swap.

“In this situation, the Lakers get to shed two bench/deeper pieces as they command less need with LeBron, Luka,” Carelli wrote in an August 20, 2025, story titled, “NBA Mock Trade: Nets Deal Nic Claxton To Lakers For Austin Reaves.” “Gabe Vincent and Austin Reaves have been common names being discussed in trades, so it surprises none in this scenario.

“As for adding Claxton, they get a key young frontcourt player at a potential discount, since the Nets want to deal him away. Nic Claxton can be a massive defensive weapon off the bench, as well as a great developmental piece undernearth Rui Hachimura, DeAndre Ayton. On top of all of this, the Lakers get future draft picks that they will need once LeBron retires.”

Austin Reaves Already Declined an $89 Million Contract Offer From the Lakers

Reaves already declined an $89 million contract extension from Los Angeles. The guard could be headed for a deal that tops the $100 million mark.

Claxton is on a four-year, $97 million contract with the Nets that is slated to go through the 2027-28 NBA season. The move is being framed as a potential cost savings deal for Los Angeles, but Claxton is still under contract for another three seasons.

NBA Trade Verdict: The Lakers Pass on Nic Claxton in Favor of Retaining Austin Reaves

It is hard to describe Reaves as untouchable, but the guard’s current contract makes it challenging for the Lakers to receive market value under the current salary cap restrictions for trades. Los Angeles also just signed Deandre Ayton this offseason making Claxton a bit redundant despite the Lakers’ previous ongoing need for a center.

Reaves’ shooting is more of a need for the Lakers than having depth down low. The Lakers could use even more shooting to build around LeBron James and Luka Doncic.

“I love it there,” Reaves explained during a June 15, interview with K8 News. “I love the fans. Love the weather, love the golf. And obviously the Lakers is the best organization in basketball.

“I don’t pay attention to it (trade rumors). I keep my head down work, and I feel like that’s one of the reasons I’m where I’m at.”