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Lakers' Austin Reaves reflects on LeBron James potentially leaving team

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 13, 2026, 10:45 PM

Last updated Jul 13, 2026

Lakers' Austin Reaves reflects on LeBron James potentially leaving team

Summary

Austin Reaves expressed difficulty in processing the possibility of LeBron James not returning to the Los Angeles Lakers for the upcoming season. The Lakers are reportedly restructuring their roster, with Reaves recently signed to a four-year, $185 million contract. Reaves has only experienced six seasons in the NBA alongside James and described the impending change as surreal. His friendship with Luka Dončić is expected to play a key role in navigating this transition for the Lakers as they integrate new players into their lineup. The NBA awaits clarity on James’ decision as free agency progresses.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Austin Reaves reflects on LeBron James' potential departure from the Lakers.
•Reaves signed a four-year, $185 million contract with the team.
•James seeks 'complete happiness' potentially with a new team.
•Lakers are building around Reaves and Luka Dončić with new roster additions.
•The NBA is waiting for updates on James' free-agent status.

Latest Updates

10:45 PMYahoo Sports — Life after LeBron: Austin Reaves embracing new role on new-look Lakers roster
6:24 PMYahoo Sports — Lakers' Austin Reaves hasn't 'honestly processed' LeBron James playing for another team next season

What they're saying

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Lakers guard Austin Reaves says he still is processing LeBron James' decision to leave the Lakers, but is happy with the offseason moves the team has made.
— Yahoo Sports