Lakers Take Firm Stance on Austin Reaves' Future After JJ Redick Hire

It's been a busy NBA offseason for the Los Angeles Lakers and we haven't even reached July. J.J. Redick was brought in as the franchise's new head coach while the 2024 NBA Draft saw Tennessee's Dalton Knecht and USC's Bronny James added to the roster. With free agency opening soon and the trade market kicking into full gear, more moves are likely on the horizon.

When it comes to Lakers players who are already on the roster, many are wondering what Austin Reaves' future holds. The 26-year-old was one of Los Angeles' better players last season, however, Redick's arrival has left the fanbase wondering how the former undrafted free agent fit into the new head coach's plans moving forward.

Fortunately, there isn't any reason to panic if you're a Reaves supporter based on the latest rumors.

Lakers Rumors: Austin Reaves Won't Be Traded

NBA insider Shams Charania appeared on Thursday's episode of the "Pat McAfee Show" to discuss the Lakers. When asked about the talented guard's future in Los Angeles, Charania didn't hesitate to put out any embers, revealing that there isn't "any scenario where [the Lakers] are moving Austin Reaves this offseason."

Charania went on to add that Redick has only had "glowing" praise for Reaves thus far and that the first-year head coach wants to help the former Wichita State/Oklahoma product "fulfill his potential."

You wouldn't hear any Lakers fans complain if Redick helped unlock Reaves' true ceiling. The Newark, AK native has been a fan favorite since fighting his way onto the roster after going undrafted at the 2021 NBA Draft and has improved with each passing campaign.

The 2023-24 season was Reaves' best to date as he enjoyed a bigger role, starting in 57 of his 82 regular-season appearances. He made the most of his elevated playing time, averaging personal bests in points (15.9), rebounds (4.3), assists (5.5), and steals (0.8) while sinking 48.6% of his attempts from the floor and 36.7% of his tries from deep. He also averaged 16.8 PTS/3.8 REB/3.6 AST with .476/.269/.895 splits in five postseason contests.

Nevertheless, Lakers fans shouldn't have needed Charania's update to soothe any lingering worries. It was only on Tuesday when Redick had nothing but great things to say about Reaves, revealing that the latter's competitive nature is one reason why he can't wait to work together.

"I can't wait to coach [Reaves] because of his competitive spirit. He has a real mental toughness and competitive approach every single night. "

- J.J. Redick on Austin Reaves

Redick was one of the NBA's best shooters during his time in the league, so it'd be great if he could pass his knowledge and techniques down to Reaves. While the former Big 12 stud has been one of the Lakers' best players during his three-year stint, there's plenty of room for him to take his game to the next level by playing alongside LeBron James (assuming he re-signs) and Anthony Davis.

If Redick can unlock Reaves' potential as early as this fall, Los Angeles will be better for it. The Lakers head into the remainder of the offseason tied for the 13th-best 2024-25 NBA Championship odd (+4000) on FanDuel Sportsbook.

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