League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Three Lakers players predicted to opt out of contracts for 2026-27 season

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 14, 2026, 4:13 AM

Last updated Jun 14, 2026

Three Lakers players predicted to opt out of contracts for 2026-27 season

Summary

Austin Reaves, Marcus Smart, and Deandre Ayton are expected to decline their player options for the 2026-27 NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers. Sports analyst John Hollinger cites Ayton's strong performance as reason for his likely departure to seek a more lucrative contract. Smart also looks poised to test the market after a successful season. Reaves' future remains a priority for the Lakers, with general manager Rob Pelinka stating the team desires to keep him. Another report mentioned potential interest from teams like the Brooklyn Nets and Atlanta Hawks in signing Reaves.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Austin Reaves, Marcus Smart, and Deandre Ayton could opt out.
•Hollinger predicts them seeking better deals in free agency.
•Lakers aim to keep Reaves amid interest from other teams.
•Smart and Ayton expected to test the market.
•Pelinka emphasizes desire for Reaves to stay with Lakers.

Latest Updates

4:13 AMYahoo Sports — Two Key Lakers Predicted to Opt Out of Contract and Enter Free Agency
2:25 AMYahoo Sports — Three key contributors predicted to opt out of contracts with Los Angeles Lakers

What they're saying

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The Lakers have a ton of moving pieces heading into the offseason, with multiple players entering free agency or at least having the choice whether to enter. The post Two Key Lakers Predicted to Opt Out of Contract and Enter Free Agency appeared first on LA Sports Report.
— Yahoo Sports