Rob Pelinka should keep this key piece on Lakers
Austin Reaves.
Austin Reaves has become a Los Angeles Lakers fan favorite since joining the franchise as an undrafted rookie in 2021. He has improved yearly and is now a major part of the team's rotation. Therefore, Reaves' value around the league has increased exponentially. That type of value can be enticing for an executive like Rob Pelinka, who always looks to sell high on his talent.
According to Shams Charania, who appeared on a recent episode of the Pat McAfee podcast, it's unlikely Reaves will move on during the summer.
"To set the record straight, the Lakers, I don't see any scenario where they're moving Austin Reaves this offseason," Charania said. "If anyone has seen the way J.J. Redick has been glowing about Austin Reaves... J.J. Redick wants Austin Reaves to really fulfill his potential. Whether that's been an All-Star caliber player. Whatever it is. He has high hopes for Austin Reaves."
Reaves is one of the Lakers' most versatile players. He can play as an on-ball initiator or as an off-ball scorer and secondary playmaker. He's also proven capable of scaling his production based on what his teammates need from him on a game-to-game basis. Redick will likely value that type of flexibility from one of his high-end role players.
As such, Reaves' position within the Lakers rotation is likely safe for the foreseeable future. Redick will potentially try to develop him into Los Angeles' version of Derrick White — a player Redick has vocally shared his appreciation of this season.
Redick is entering his first year as an NBA head coach. He will likely have some grace with the front office, who will undoubtedly want to give him the roster he needs to create a contender. It would appear Reaves is going to be a big part of that.
Pelinka must look elsewhere within the roster if he wants to make a trade. After all, his first move this summer can't be undermining his new head coach.
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