NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Predicted to Part Ways with $54 Million Superstar to Improve Squad Around Luka and LeBron

As Luka Doncic gears up for his first full season with the Los Angeles Lakers, the franchise appears poised to make bold decisions in pursuit of an 18th NBA title. One of those decisions could involve parting ways with rising star Austin Reaves.

Luka Doncic’s Growing Influence in LA

The 26-year-old Doncic has quickly become the centerpiece of the Lakers’ future, and his influence was evident in the team’s major offseason moves. His presence played a key role in landing both Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton - two players expected to play significant roles in the 2025–26 campaign.Now, with a win-now mindset guiding the franchise, the Lakers are evaluating every asset on their roster. That includes 26-year-old Austin Reaves, who, despite deliveringhis best season yet, may not fit seamlessly alongside Doncic in the long run.

The Case for Trading Austin Reaves

Reaves averaged a career-high in nearly every major statistical category last season, emerging as a fringe All-Star.

Austin Reaves 2024–25 Regular Season Stats

However, his evolution into a ball-dominant tertiary option has occasionally taken possessions away from Doncic - an issue that could grow as the team solidifies its identity around the Slovenian star.Maxwell Ogden of FanSided argued that Reaves’ development may soon become a luxury the Lakers can no longer afford: “If Reaves can’t take the next step and justify the nine-figure contract he’s likely to sign in 2026, then the Lakers need to trade him by the February deadline,” Ogden wrote.

“It’s unfair on some levels, but Doncic is looking to win now, and Reaves is their most tradable asset.”

Why Reaves Could Be on the Block

Despite being undrafted, Reaves has elevated his game to the verge of All-Star status. Yet, his skill set - while impressive - is starting to overlap with Doncic’s responsibilities as the primary initiator.

Factors Supporting a Potential Trade

• Redundant Play Styles: Both Reaves and Doncic operate best with the ball in their hands. • Future Contract Concerns: Reaves is expected to command a nine-figure extension by 2026. • Roster Flexibility: Trading Reaves could help the Lakers acquire a better stylistic fit or multiple rotational pieces. • Doncic’s Timeline: Every move now hinges on delivering a title while Doncic is in his prime.Ogden emphasized that Reaves’ value might be the key to fulfilling Doncic’s expectations: “Reaves is the player and contract who will ultimately decide if the Lakers can honor Doncic’s request to win now.”Reaves may have more room to blossom as a lead guard elsewhere, potentially even earning an All-Star nod on a team built around him. For the Lakers, though, the priority is clear: build the best possible supporting cast around Doncic. And that might mean making tough calls - even if it involves letting go of a fan favorite and breakout performer.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors Potentially Eyeing $3,303,711 Charlotte Hornets Star as Potential Backcourt AdditionAs February’s trade deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Los Angeles to see whether the franchise pulls the trigger on a deal that could define their championship trajectory.