Before the deal with Reaves was finalized, the Lakers reportedly explored a blockbuster swap involving guard Tyler Herro from the Miami Heat. While that pivot never materialized, the framework of the discussions indicates the Lakers were weighing a range of scenarios to optimize their roster around Reaves and other core pieces. As the timeline progressed, the Heat instead completed a major trade with the Milwaukee Bucks for Giannis Antetokounmpo, shifting the market dynamics and leaving the Lakers to press ahead with their existing plan centered on Reaves.
Sources familiar with the discussions say that, prior to the Antetokounmpo trade and the sign-and-trade stability with Reaves, the Lakers floated ideas involving Herro and forward Kel’El Ware, with the potential inclusion of multiple first-round picks. The Nets also reportedly assessed the price tag for Herro as part of their own due diligence. At the time, Herro was entering the final season of a substantial contract, making any trade a complex financial proposition for the receiving team.
Heading into the 2026-27 season, Herro’s contract carries a notable cap hit, and he is anticipated to continue drawing interest in the trade market given his expiring deal and continuing production. For the Lakers, a deal for Herro would have represented a different financial calculus than signing Reaves to a max extension, plus the cost of trade assets.
Meanwhile, the Lakers’ decision to commit to Reaves came after what insiders described as a significant negotiation stretch. Reports indicated that the two sides were initially separated by roughly $35 million in overall value, with the Lakers later increasing their offer to secure the deal. Media discussions characterized the situation as a leverage play, with the Lakers aiming to maximize long-term value for their roster while Reaves received a substantial raise beyond his prior compensation.
The final agreement, four years at $185 million, positions Reaves as a central piece of the Lakers’ strategy moving forward. The deal reflects the team’s confidence in his growth trajectory and his fit within their system, while also signaling a commitment to roster continuity in an increasingly competitive conference.
In review, the Lakers’ path to retaining Reaves involved balancing interest in alternative paths, including potential trades for prominent players, against the benefits of maintaining a stable core. Although conversations around Tyler Herro reportedly took place, the club ultimately chose to extend Reaves and continue building around him as a foundational member of the franchise’s future.
This reflects a broader trend across the league: teams often explore multiple scenarios behind the scenes, weighing potential upgrades against financial commitments and draft capital. For fans and analysts, the takeaway is clear—the Lakers prioritized stability and growth with Reaves, while keeping options open should the landscape shift in the coming seasons. The post-signing period will be watched closely to see how the roster evolves around Reaves and the broader strategic plan for the team.
