Los Angeles Lakers agree record $185m contract extension with Austin Reaves
Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves intends to sign a record-breaking four-year, $185m maximum contract extension to remain with the NBA franchise.
The American guard previously declined his $14.9m player option to clear the path for this lucrative new agreement.
This landmark deal represents the richest contract ever handed to an undrafted player in the history of the league.
Representatives for the versatile playmaker spent the past ten days negotiating terms after teams were officially permitted to engage with their own free agents.
Overcoming injury setbacks
The dynamic scorer enjoyed a stellar individual campaign when healthy, averaging an impressive 23.3 points on 49% shooting.
He also contributed 5.5 assists, 4.7 rebounds and 1.1 steals per contest while shooting 36% from beyond the arc.
However, the shooting guard was restricted to a career-low 51 appearances during the regular season.
Nagging calf and oblique injuries repeatedly sidelined the rising star as the franchise navigated a fiercely competitive Western Conference schedule.
Securing the long-term future
This massive financial commitment ensures one of basketball’s premier breakout talents remains anchored in California through his prime years.
The final season of the arrangement, covering the 2029-30 campaign, will include a valuable player option.
Retaining their most consistent perimeter threat secures vital continuity for the storied organisation as they look to build a championship-contending roster.