In an interview with K8 News, the 27-year-old guard stated plainly, “I want to be in LA. I want to play my whole career in LA.”
Reaves, who completed his fourth NBA season and his first as a full-time starter, averaged a career-high 20.2 points per game while shooting 37.7% from three-point range. He also posted 5.8 assists and 4.5 rebounds per game across 73 starts.
His comments come amid offseason speculation surrounding potential roster movement following the Lakers’ first-round playoff exit to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Reaves addressed the trade rumors directly: “I don’t pay attention to it. I keep my head down, work, and I feel like that’s one of the reasons I’m where I’m at.
Reaves praised the Lakers’ acquisition of Luka Doncic, calling the All-NBA guard “a hall of fame player at such a young age that you can build around.” He also noted the ongoing impact of LeBron James, who became the first NBA player to compete at both age 19 and 40.
“The sky’s the limit for us,” Reaves said. “We’re moving in the right direction.”
After going undrafted in 2021, Reaves developed into one of the Lakers’ most reliable two-way players. He increased his scoring average in each of his first four seasons, culminating in a strong 2024-25 campaign.
He also delivered in the postseason, averaging 16.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in five games against Minnesota. Despite the team’s early exit, Reaves remained a consistent offensive option throughout the series.
The Arkansas native signed a four-year, $53.8 million deal with Los Angeles in July 2023. He is under contract through 2025-26, with a player option for the final year.
Reaves also expressed his appreciation for the city and its lifestyle, citing the fanbase, weather, and golf opportunities among the reasons he hopes to stay. “I love it there. I love the fans. Love the weather, love the golf. And obviously the Lakers is the best organization in basketball,” he said.
The Lakers enter a pivotal offseason after finishing third in the Western Conference but failing to advance past the opening round.
