The Los Angeles Lakers are actively negotiating a long-term contract for rising guard Austin Reaves, who has turned down a lucrative contract offer. Reaves is projected to seek around $30 million annually, foregoing the Lakers' maximum offer of $89.2 million over four years. With a player option for the 2026-27 season, he faces a pivotal decision to either accept a potential four-year, $98 million extension or opt for unrestricted free agency. Reaves has shown remarkable progress, averaging 20.2 points and 5.8 assists this season, especially flourishing after Luka Doncic's arrival, positioning him as an All-Star candidate alongside LeBron James and Doncic.