LA Lakers insider gives concerning prediction around $53.8M fan favorite's long-term future 

The LA Lakers have limited young valuable assets on their team. Fourth-year guard Austin Reaves, who signed a four-year $53.8 million contract in the 2023-24 season, is among them. Reaves' steady growth has improved his stock and made his deal seem like a team-friendly contract.

The Lakers have him tied up on a guaranteed deal until 2025-26. His final year in 2026-27 will be a player option. If Reaves continues growing at this rate or even maintains his production, there's a fair chance his value increases, and LA might have to part ways with the fan favorite.

Lakers insider Jovan Buha is leaning into the notion, albeit giving it a slightly favored chance.

"I would say it’s close to 50-50,” Buha said on his podcast "Buha's Block" when asked if Reaves will still be with the Lakers in three years.

"I would lean probably 55 percent (he does) not (stay) because he can opt out after next season and I think he’s going to have a competitive market."

The potential factors behind that include LeBron James' imminent departure. The four-time MVP, who will turn 40 on Dec. 30, may not be playing until Reaves' contract ends. The LA Lakers will be in search of another star player to pair with Anthony Davis. Reaves' potentially increased salary might handicap their bid to pursue a lucrative option in the market.

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NBA Trade Rumors: LA Lakers don't intend to move Austin Reaves but the lure to acquire a third star changes things

The LA Lakers have been high on Austin Reaves' stock since the 2023 offseason. It's why they brought him back on a lucrative deal in free agency and beat their competition for his signature. They have also avoided trade talks involving him. It's almost a non-negotiable for the Lakers to include him in negotiations.

It may have even led to the Lakers' inactivity on the trade front since the last trade deadline. However, it could change. According to insider Brett Siegel, people around the NBA believe Reaves could be packaged in a potential deal with D'Angelo Russell if the Lakers pursue a third star on the trade market.

Reaves has averaged 16.7 points, 3.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists, shooting 44.0%, including 35.5% from 3. The Lakers are 11-8. Reaves' production has improved, but his efficiency has dropped. LeBron James is also not playing at a top 10 or even top 20 level through the first 19 games.

The LA Lakers might need more help than just roster tweaks on the edges if they are to contend for a title with this core. If that's the case, using Reaves as a trade candidate makes sense to add another star.