LeBron James’ Move Shocks Austin Reaves
The Los Angeles Lakers are reeling after four‑time champion LeBron James announced he will continue his legendary career elsewhere beginning in 2026‑27. James spent eight seasons with the franchise, forging deep bonds with teammates during a tenure that included two playoff appearances and a trip to the Western Conference Finals in 2023.
James and Reaves partnered from the 2021‑22 season through the recently completed 2025‑26 campaign, logging five years together. During that span the duo guided LA to the playoffs twice, highlighted by a 2023 run that pushed the Lakers to the Western Conference Finals, where they ultimately fell short after a strong postseason showing.
Austin Reaves
Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) before playing against the Houston Rockets in game five of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Reaves capped his season with a four‑year, $185 million maximum contract, the richest deal ever for an undrafted player. The massive agreement underscores the Lakers’ confidence in his ability to anchor the backcourt alongside Luka Doncic and signals a new era of building around the young star.
To bolster the roster, Los Angeles added Quentin Grimes, Sandro Mamukelashvili, and Collin Sexton, while also acquiring Walker Kessler through a sign‑and‑trade with the Utah Jazz. These moves are intended to deepen the depth of the postseason run and position the franchise as a genuine title contender in the coming seasons.
The ripple effects of James’ departure will be felt both on and off the court as Reaves and the Lakers prepare for a fresh chapter, hoping to turn the disappointment into motivation for another ambitious playoff push.
sports.yahoo.com.
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