The appearance of Austin Reeves in Los Angeles this season could soon present itself as a major dilemma for the Lakers.
With a base salary north of $1.5 million in 2022-23, the 24-year-old is set to go from one of the NBA’s biggest signings to pricing himself out of Los Angeles entirely.
With uncertainty mounting over Reeves’ future in Southern California, NBA Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett was quick to warn the budding man off chasing money this season.
Garnett said in the last episode Showtime basketball ticket and the truth“Although he will get some bigger offers. He’ll go throw some bread at him.”
When Matt Barnes, who was serving as co-host Paul Pierce, stepped in to point out that word around the league was that Reaves would explore his free agency options and potentially prioritize a larger contract, Garnett was sure not to pull any punches.
“Oh, he’s stupid,” the former MVP said of Reeves’ possible split with the Lakers. “It’s stupid, brother.”
The most the Lakers can offer Reaves this offseason is a four-year on-court deal worth $50 million — which may simply not be enough for a player who has lost more than 21 points in three of their last four postseason games.
like Shams Al-Shaaraniyya from the NBA Highlighted Monday on FanDuel TV, “There’s definitely a concern if you’re a Lakers that he’s going to get a bid sheet that’s somehow way above 50.”
Garnett’s general sentiment towards Reaves carries unmistakable weight. There is a strong argument to be made that the Lakers remain the best place for Reaves to continue to develop as a player and serve as a key contributor to the title challenger.
However, that’s an easier argument when you’re an NBA legend like Garnett, who earned nearly $344 million over his playing career.
Yes, Reaves can always fade away at his next stop, but that’s kind of the point. It is best for the uncut freehand to strike while the iron is hot, as his stock may not be as high as it is at this very moment.