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Austin Reaves: Lakers' $240M Offer Likely Ends Jazz Pursuit
13 Mar
Summary
- Lakers plan to offer Austin Reaves a five-year, $240 million deal.
- Reaves is having a career-best season averaging 23.7 points.
- Jazz prioritize re-signing Walker Kessler over pursuing Reaves.
The Utah Jazz's hopes of acquiring Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves in free agency are diminishing significantly. Reports indicate the Lakers intend to offer Reaves a substantial five-year contract valued at $240 million. This massive offer comes as Reaves is experiencing a career-defining season, averaging 23.7 points per game.
Although Reaves could form a dynamic scoring tandem with Keyonte George for the Jazz, the team's financial priorities lie elsewhere. The Jazz are focused on re-signing their defensive anchor, Walker Kessler, whose deal is expected to exceed $100 million.
Combined with existing high-value contracts for Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr., and a pending extension for Keyonte George, the Jazz face a steep payroll in the near future. Consequently, acquiring a player commanding a $200 million-plus contract like Reaves is considered unrealistic. The Jazz are projected to build their future around George and Ace Bailey in the backcourt, supported by Markkanen, Jackson Jr., and Kessler.
