From completely overlooked to the highest-paid undrafted player in pro basketball history. Austin Reaves has officially agreed to return to the Los Angeles Lakers on a massive four-year, $185 million maximum contract extension. The historical agreement includes a player option in the final year of his deal, which locks the guard up for an incredible annual average of $46.25 million per season.

Ausitn Reaves Gets Paid- Los Angeles Lakers
Mar 23, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons Kevin Huerter (27) defends against Los Angeles Lakers Austin Reaves (15) during the second half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images

Reaves’ Bet Paid Off Big

To make this extension a reality, Reaves had to play the long game. In July 2025, he turned down a team-friendly 4-year, $90 million extension offer. Then he declined his $14.9 million player option for the upcoming season to enter free agency. That calculated gamble paid off with a massive $95 million surplus compared to the team’s initial offer.

The Lakers’ front office made retaining their homegrown star the absolute top priority of the offseason. Now that they hold Reaves’ Bird rights, they can leave his $21 million cap as a hold on the books while spending the rest of the availble $50 million in free agency space. Once their external roster building is finalized, they will officially finalize Reaves’ deal to blow way above the salary cap.

Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves Los Angeles Lakers
Mar 14, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) reacts with guard Austin Reaves (15) after scoring a game winning shot during overtime against the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images

The Lakers’ 1-2 Punch Is Locked and Loaded

This extension firmly cements Reaves as the premier perimeter partner next to superstar Luka Doncic. Doncic and Reaves had developed a close relationship over their first season as teammates, and because of that, Doncic had been highly vocal behind the scenes about Reaves staying in Los Angeles long term. Reportedly requesting that Reaves be completely untouchable in any future trade packages.

End Of My AR Gets Paid Rant

I personally am a big fan of this decision by the Lakers front office. At the end of last season, I felt concerned about what the future held for the Lakers and Austin Reaves together. This was ultimately a decision I felt needed to happen for the Lakers to have success in the future. Five years ago, all 30 teams passed on Austin Reaves in the draft. Today, 29 fan bases watch on as Austin stands alone at the top of the history books.