
How impending retirement is fuelling Cirstea's success
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The Los Angeles Lakers' season ended after a sweep by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Austin Reaves hopes to continue playing with LeBron James, who faces uncertainty in free agency.
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The Los Angeles Lakersā season is officially over after the Oklahoma City Thunder swept them in the Western Conference semifinals on Monday. Now, it is time for the Lakers to focus on building the best team for next season.
Two of the Lakers star players, LeBron James and Austin Reaves, will be entering free agency this summer. While Reaves is expected to re-sign with Los Angeles, Jamesā future is much less clear.
Some sources have said James will have to accept a pay cut in order to stay with the Lakers in free agency. Others say it is time for the Lakers and James to part ways regardless of his willingness to accept a lower-paying contract.
After the Game 4 loss on Monday, Reaves told reporters he hopes to continue playing alongside James. The 23-season veteran has been Reavesā teammate since his rookie season in 2021.
āMan it would mean the world to me. I donāt know anything different. My rookie year, I had no idea what the hell is going on, and he basically took me under his wing. Given me every opportunity that I could ever ask for,ā Reaves said, per NBA insider Michael Scotto. āTrusted me, further than the court. Build a real friendship. He obviously is into Golf now so weāre a lot closer so, but yeah, itās been super fun. Hope to you know, continue to do that. Heās taught me a lot. I love him a lot for my career. Heās giving me confidence every single day.ā
If LeBron James accepts a pay cut, it could allow the Lakers to build a stronger team, but his future with the franchise remains uncertain.
The Lakers were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals, ending their playoff run.
Austin Reaves expressed his desire to continue playing alongside LeBron James, highlighting their strong partnership since Reaves' rookie season.

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Feb 26, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) with forward LeBron James (23) against the Phoenix Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Reaves is expected to decline his $14.9 million player option with the Lakers for the 2026-27 season. He is eligible for a five-year, $241 million maximum contract extension with the Lakers.
Meanwhile, James has to decide between re-signing with the Lakers, joining a different NBA team or retiring.
Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The post Austin Reaves Hopes to Keep Playing With LeBron James After Lakersā Playoff Exit appeared first on LA Sports Report.