The Los Angeles Lakers might have found themselves an impact player on the undrafted market.
Every once in a while we see a player emerge from not being drafted, and churn out a nice role for themselves on an NBA team.
That seems to be the case with Lakers guard Austin Reaves.
He was picked up as an undrafted free agent after the 2021 draft and played sparingly last season.
But, in his second season, Reaves has taken a massive jump.
Due to many injuries to the Lakers, he has been forced to play a substantial role on their team.
He has played in 54 games and started 12 of them while averaging 12.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.9 assists.
Also, post-All-Star break, Reaves is averaging 17.0 points and 5.0 assists per game.
He has carved himself a meaningful role on a playoff team, and will likely be paid as an impact role player this offseason.
According to Shams Charania, Reaves could command a massive contract in the $50 million range.
Breaking down the rise of Lakers guard Austin Reaves and what lies ahead in free agency – on Run It Back at @fandueltv: pic.twitter.com/DCUdQ8HuDK
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 20, 2023
Reaves is coming off a career game in which he scored 35 points and carried the Lakers to a much-needed win over the Orlando Magic.
He will be a restricted free agent this offseason, and the Lakers can match any offer he might receive.
But, it seems possible that Reaves will be outside the Lakers’ price range.
He has played well enough to receive a big contract and you can assume he will go wherever offers him the most.
The rest of this season and possible playoffs will play a key role in the market for Reaves this offseason.
NEXT: The Lakers Are Working Out 2 Free Agent Centers This Week
