Austin Reaves Put on the Trading Block: Are the Lakers Taking Too Big a Gamble with This Four-Time All-Star Guard?

The NBA trade rumor mill is in full swing, and the latest buzz out of Los Angeles has shocked both fans and analysts alike: Austin Reaves may be on the trading block. The Los Angeles Lakers, in their ongoing quest to maximize the twilight years of LeBron James’ career and make another deep playoff run, are reportedly exploring bold moves—including potentially dealing one of their most beloved young stars in exchange for a four-time All-Star guard whose identity has yet to be confirmed officially.

The question now is whether this rumored shake-up is strategic genius—or a dangerous gamble that could upset team chemistry and long-term plans. Let’s break down the implications of possibly trading Reaves, evaluate who this All-Star guard might be, and analyze whether the Lakers are risking too much.

Austin Reaves’ Rise: From Undrafted to Unquestionably Valuable

Austin Reaves has been one of the most impressive stories in recent Lakers history. After going undrafted in 2021, he earned his spot through Summer League performances, practice grind, and poise under pressure. By his second year, Reaves was closing games alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, making clutch shots and defensive plays in high-stakes moments, including the playoffs.

What makes Reaves invaluable is his versatility. He can score, pass, shoot from deep, and even defend larger wings thanks to his basketball IQ and positioning. More importantly, he’s a natural fit with the Lakers’ core—he doesn’t need the ball to be effective but can take over stretches when required.

In the 2023–24 season, Reaves averaged around 15 points, 5 assists, and 4 rebounds per game, while shooting nearly 38% from three. His unselfish style, team-first mentality, and clutch performances have made him a fan favorite and a trusted teammate of LeBron. So why would the Lakers consider trading him now?

The answer lies in ambition. The Lakers are not satisfied with making the playoffs—they want to contend. And that may mean parting with beloved assets to bring in proven stars.

Lakers Eyeing a Four-Time All-Star: Who Could It Be?

While the Lakers front office hasn’t confirmed any names, several insider reports suggest the franchise is considering high-impact guards who could either complement or replace D’Angelo Russell in the starting lineup. The mention of a “four-time All-Star” narrows the field considerably.

Some possible names floated in connection with this mysterious All-Star include:

• DeMar DeRozan: A Los Angeles native with four All-Star appearances, DeRozan brings elite midrange scoring, playoff experience, and veteran leadership. However, he’s not a three-point threat and doesn’t fit the Lakers’ spacing needs perfectly.

• Jrue Holiday (prior to trade to Boston): Though now part of the Celtics, his name was heavily tied to Lakers rumors before the season. A defensive juggernaut and championship-winner, he would’ve been the perfect two-way addition. Unless Boston is planning a shock trade, he’s likely off the table.

• Bradley Beal: Recently traded to Phoenix, Beal fits the All-Star description but has a large contract and injury history. The Lakers would need to absorb serious salary and navigate fit concerns.

• Zach LaVine: Another four-time All-Star whose name frequently surfaces in trade rumors. LaVine provides explosive scoring but brings injury baggage and questionable defensive effort.

If any of these players—or someone similar—is the target, the Lakers are betting that elite offensive firepower or two-way consistency will make them better equipped to handle the Western Conference gauntlet.

But even if the talent level of this All-Star is undeniable, the trade’s cost is the real issue.

Is Trading Reaves a Gamble That Could Backfire?

In the NBA, it’s not just about talent—it’s about fit, culture, and chemistry. The Lakers learned this lesson the hard way during the ill-fated Russell Westbrook experiment. Stacking names on a roster doesn’t always translate to wins.

Trading Austin Reaves could pose several risks:

1. Chemistry Disruption: Reaves is a glue guy. He connects the stars to the role players, communicates well on defense, and brings calm in crunch time. Removing him could disturb the team’s rhythm.

2. LeBron’s Trust: LeBron has publicly praised Reaves multiple times. Losing a teammate he trusts could impact leadership dynamics.

3. Cap Flexibility: Reaves’ current contract is team-friendly for his level of production. Trading for a high-paid All-Star could limit future flexibility.

4. Long-Term Development: Reaves is only 25. His game is still evolving. There’s a very real chance that in two years, Reaves is outperforming the All-Star the Lakers trade for.

Of course, there are potential benefits too—namely, instant offensive explosion or defensive reinforcement. But those are only valuable if they lead to postseason success.

The Fan Response and Locker Room Impact

Lakers fans are among the most passionate in the league, and reactions to the Reaves rumor have been emotional. Many view him as a homegrown success, someone who embodies effort, humility, and modern NBA skill. Trading him could be perceived as management ignoring the team’s culture in favor of chasing flashier names.

Players, too, may react cautiously. Chemistry in the NBA is fragile. Just one move can alter the locker room’s mood. If the All-Star coming in has a strong personality or doesn’t buy into team concepts, the Lakers may be creating new issues instead of solving current ones.

On the flip side, if Reaves is traded and the Lakers start winning more consistently, fans will forgive quickly. Success heals all wounds in professional sports.

Reaves’ Role in the Lakers’ Future—Or Someone Else’s?

The Lakers are at a crossroads. Keep developing Reaves into a long-term piece or roll the dice with a veteran who may deliver now but decline soon?

It’s a classic “win-now vs. build-a-core” dilemma.

Austin Reaves has already shown he can produce in the playoffs, defend multiple positions, and rise in big moments. He’s also improved his efficiency, ball-handling, and playmaking every season. Some front offices believe he has the potential to be a full-time starter and possible All-Star if given more usage.

If the Lakers do move him, they may regret it in two years—especially if he blossoms elsewhere while the acquired All-Star ages or struggles.

It’s also worth noting that the new CBA punishes teams with expensive rosters. Having a reliable player like Reaves on a manageable contract is a huge advantage. Giving that up only makes sense if the incoming player fits like a glove.

Final Thoughts: Is This a Risk Worth Taking?

The Lakers are clearly looking to shake things up before the playoffs. They’ve shown interest in maximizing every last ounce of LeBron James’ championship window, and that includes entertaining bold trades. But moving Austin Reaves isn’t a simple numbers game—it’s an emotional, strategic, and philosophical decision.

If the four-time All-Star guard they’re targeting truly elevates the team and fills a glaring weakness—like perimeter defense or shot creation—then maybe the risk pays off. But if the new addition struggles to gel, demands the ball too often, or limits the impact of other role players, the move could backfire spectacularly.

In the end, this rumored trade will likely come down to one thing: how much the Lakers value chemistry versus pure star power. They’ve seen both sides—winning titles with balance and falling short with dysfunction. Whether they’ve learned from that history remains to be seen.

Until then, fans will watch, speculate, and hope the front office remembers that sometimes the best move is keeping the guy who’s already proven he belongs.