Some things that never leave the NBA’s picture are speculations and rumors. There is no fire exit, especially with all the spotlight on teams like the Los Angeles Lakers. Meanwhile, things could get more interesting if stars like Austin Reaves enter the trade conversation. And this is exactly what is going on in LA. But for now, AR has moved on from being 26.
On Thursday, May 29, the Los Angeles Lakers guard turned 27. Currently in the offseason, AR is seemingly relishing some family time. To be precise, his high school sweetheart, Jenna Barber, took to her IG handle to wish her beloved. The couple has been together since they met in Arkansas. Reaves and Barber usually keep their relationship private, but they made an exception on AR’s birthday—for good reason!
Sharing a carousel of photos featuring the lovebirds in holiday mode, Jenna captioned: “27!!! I’m so glad u were born, my person forever ”
His girlfriend wrapped her message with love and warmth on such a special day, leaving no room to hide her feelings. Most importantly, Jenna’s note of love could act as a diversion for Austin Reaves as trade rumors about him continue to gain power in the NBA world.
Offseasons in the NBA are all about such trade stories. However, this one might be a bit too wild to wrap your head around!
Austin Reaves finds himself in a storm of trade rumors
Austin Reaves may have won hearts during the regular season, but his playoff dip is raising real questions in Los Angeles. Despite averaging 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds during the season, his postseason stats fell to just 16.2 points with noticeable inefficiency. Naturally, Rob Pelinka and the Lakers front office have started exploring trade options. Reaves is still in the mix, but his future feels far from secure right now.
Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report recently added fuel to the fire. He revealed Reaves is likely to decline his $14.9 million player option for 2026-27, aiming instead for a free agency payday starting near $30 million. The Lakers cannot offer that in an extension. That means any team considering him would need quiet, off-the-record confidence that he would re-sign. It is risky business, especially when the numbers are this big.
Mar 26, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) in the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Reaves is reportedly asking the Lakers to double his current salary of $13.5 million. While that price tag may reflect his regular-season value, the playoffs told a different story. The Lakers find themselves in a tough spot. Trade him now or risk losing him for nothing later. And even if he stays, the looming 2026 free agency clouds the horizon. For now, Reaves remains on the roster, but the clock is ticking.
So, he candles are out, but the fire is far from over. Austin Reaves just turned 27, yet his future with the Lakers feels anything but settled. Between love notes and trade talks, the noise is only getting louder. Whether he stays or goes, one thing is certain—Reaves is no longer just a feel-good story. Now, the Lakers must soon decide what to do with him.
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