Austin Reaves is quietly becoming one of the most intriguing names to watch ahead of the 2026 NBA offseason. After a career-best season with the Los Angeles Lakers, the 27-year-old guard is drawing attention from several teams around the league, including the Utah Jazz.
According to Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, Utah already surfaced as a team with real interest in the breakout guard. Speaking on the Buha’s Block podcast while discussing the Lakers’ long-term roster outlook, Pincus said the Jazz could become a serious player in the race for Reaves.
“I’ve heard that the Utah Jazz like Austin Reaves. I don’t think that’s a shock, but I’ve heard that that’s one of the teams that’s interested in Austin Reaves,” Pincus said.
Jazz Could Explore Sign-and-Trade Framework
Utah’s potential interest goes beyond simple free agency speculation. Pincus also floated a possible sign-and-trade scenario that could send Reaves to the Jazz while addressing the Lakers’ need at center.
“Theoretically, do a sign-and-trade for Walker Kessler, where Kessler’s and some draft compensation are coming to the Lakers, and Austin’s going to Utah,” Pincus explained. “The Lakers are using that outgoing money to get Kessler for Austin. But if it’s enough money, they could use some of it, you could do a multi-team trade, you could bring in Giannis in that kind of situation where some of the draft comp coming from Utah would go to Milwaukee.”
Kessler, a 24-year-old rim protector standing over seven feet tall, has been loosely linked to the Lakers in trade speculation for months. The young center could potentially fill a defensive need for Los Angeles if the front office decides to reshape its roster.
Pincus added that Utah’s admiration for Reaves is not new information around the league.
“I know that it’s rumored from people I trust that Utah really likes Austin,” he said. “I don’t think that’s a leap. I know the Lakers have been linked to Kessler for a long period of time.”
Reaves’ Value Continues to Rise
Reaves’ growing market is largely driven by his production this season. The Lakers guard is averaging 23.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.4 assists while emerging as a reliable offensive creator in Los Angeles’ backcourt.
His strong play has positioned him for a massive payday. Reaves is expected to decline his $14.9 million player option and enter unrestricted free agency in 2026, where he could command a max-level contract.
The Lakers would have the ability to offer him a five-year deal worth roughly $241 million, while rival teams could pursue him with a four-year contract projected around $178.5 million.
Utah may not be the only franchise preparing to make a push. Teams such as the Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Clippers, Brooklyn Nets, and Chicago Bulls are also projected to have cap space next summer.
Lakers Still Control the Situation
Despite the growing speculation, the Lakers remain in a strong position to retain Reaves if they choose to. His on-court chemistry with Luka Doncic has helped stabilize the offense this season, and Los Angeles currently sits 39-25 and sixth in the Western Conference standings.
With LeBron James’ future uncertain and the roster potentially entering a transitional phase, the Lakers could view Reaves as a foundational piece rather than a trade asset.
If that remains the case, Utah’s interest may ultimately hinge on one simple factor: whether the Lakers are willing to let one of their most productive guards reach the open market.