Insider Reveals Lakers Turned Down Rival’s Request for $54 Million Starter in Trade Negotiations

The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly held firm in their refusal to include guard Austin Reaves in trade talks for Atlanta Hawks star Dejounte Murray. Despite the Lakers’ interest in Murray, the Hawks were said to have coveted Reaves in trade discussions, but the Lakers denied the request, according to league sources.

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Austin Reaves, 25, re-signed with the Lakers during the past offseason on a four-year, $53.8 million contract. He has been having a career-best season, averaging 15.1 points, 5.2 assists, 4.2 rebounds, and 0.9 steals. Reaves, however, struggled defensively earlier in the season, leading to his demotion to a bench role. The Lakers have since returned him to the starting lineup, and the team has gone 2-0 since then.

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The report also suggests that the Hawks are seeking two first-round picks for Murray and do not want to take on any salary beyond this season. The Lakers face challenges in meeting the Hawks’ asking price, as they have limited options for first-round picks in the coming years. They could potentially explore trade scenarios involving guard D’Angelo Russell, but that would require a three-team trade with a third team taking on Russell.

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The Lakers are dealing with trade rumors amid a challenging season marked by injuries and inconsistent performance. Both LeBron James and Anthony Davis have emphasized the need for the team to stay focused and continue putting in the work despite the trade rumors and challenges they face.