Lakers' Austin Reaves Shows Love to LeBron James in Photo After Star's Exit in NBA Free Agency
Bleacher Report • • sports
Key Points:
- Austin Reaves will play without LeBron James for the first time in his career after James announced he will not return to the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2026-27 season, ending his eight-year tenure with the team.
- Reaves expressed gratitude and camaraderie toward James on Instagram, thanking him and looking forward to meeting on the golf course.
- James' departure comes shortly after Reaves signed a four-year, $185 million contract extension with the Lakers, following a career-best season averaging 23.3 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game.
- LeBron James' agent revealed interest from 12 to 14 NBA teams since James became a free agent, with notable suitors including the Golden State Warriors, Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Denver Nuggets.
- The Warriors are a logical destination for James, offering a chance to play alongside Stephen Curry and remain near Southern California, while the Heat and Cavaliers also present strong competitive opportunities given James' history with those franchises.
