The Los Angeles Lakers have officially begun a long offseason which is already prompting plenty of NBA rumors about potential moves. All signs point to Luka Doncic being involved in the Lakers’ roster moves and potential trades as his two co-stars hit NBA free agency.
While much has been made about LeBron James’ future, it appears Doncic is concerned about the other Lakers star Austin Reaves’ status. While the Lakers have been linked to a potential trade for Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, Doncic is making his opinion known.
As the Lakers push to acquire another star, Doncic is pushing the Lakers not to consider moving Reaves, even if it means landing Antetokounmpo. Since Reaves is a free agent, the only way the guard can be dealt is via a sign-and-trade, something the guard would have to agree to in order to make any deal work.
“Dončić has made it clear to the Lakers that he would like to continue playing with Reaves, according to league sources,” The Athletic’s Dan Woike and Sam Amick wrote in a May 12, 2026, story titled, “Lakers must build around Luka Dončić. What does it mean for LeBron and Austin Reaves?” “Beyond their close friendship, Dončić believes in Reaves as a long-term piece next to him.
“Multiple league sources said that belief was best illustrated when Dončić told people within the organization that he wouldn’t want Reaves included in any potential trade packages for Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo. Dončić, those sources say, would strongly prefer a team construction that includes him and Reaves alongside whatever star the Lakers could acquire.”
Let’s explore the latest Lakers rumors and news ahead of NBA free agency.
Lakers News: Luka Doncic Has Had ‘Regular Contact’ With Ownership Ahead of NBA Free Agency
All options are on the table for James, which includes re-signing with the Lakers, bolting Los Angeles for another franchise via free agency or retirement. With James’ status in flux, it appears Doncic is now the player who Lakers ownership is involving in the decision making process.
“Dončić has had regular contact with new Lakers owner Mark Walter and has been impressed with the level of communication, league sources said,” Woike and Amick detailed. “Dončić has also mentioned how well he thought the Lakers played in March when the team went 15-2.”
Lakers Rumors: Luka Doncic Is Pushing LA to Pass on a Sign & Trade With Austin Reaves for a Star Like Giannis Antetokounmpo
The Athletic reports that the Lakers are expected to consider potential trades for Antetokounmpo in the coming months. Doncic’s feelings complicates matters as it will be challenging to land Antetokounmpo without including one of the team’s stars.
“The Lakers are expected to explore Antetokounmpo trade scenarios this summer,” Amick and Woike added.
“… Of course, trading for a star without including Reaves would significantly complicate any negotiations. The Lakers have access to just three first-round picks, one second-round pick, swaps and few younger players with significant value in league circles.”
The unspoken message from Doncic is clear: pay Reaves his market value to ensure the guard returns to Los Angeles. It will be interesting to see how Los Angeles handles things with Doncic’s more veteran co-star.
All eyes are on James’ decision after Los Angeles’ season ended abruptly following a sweep at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
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