With Doncic s contract renewal, the most important deal in the next few summers has been completed

With Doncic's contract renewal, the most important deal in the next few summers has been completed. But there is a discussion about James' future and the most complex question in Los Angeles' future is probably about Austin Reeves' future.

Reeves, the 27-year-old defender, is an example of a successful development, never being drafted free agent, and averaging 20.2 points and 5.8 assists for the Lakers last season, with a career three-point shooting percentage of 37%. But how much does it cost to keep Reeves because he will be on the open market next summer? Does it make sense for the Lakers to pay him money?

"I think Reeves will get over $30 million," an executive told ESPN, which coincides with the statements from multiple management sources who were asked about the next contract that Reeves could get. The executive and others expected that Reeves would eventually return to Los Angeles, which would cement Reeves' role as a long-time campaign partner in Los Angeles backcourt following Doncic - a role that was once played by Brunson and Irving in Dallas.

But the tone of these negotiations — and Reeves’ position in the Lakers’ long-term prospects — may depend on what will happen next spring. Reeves did poorly in the first round of the Los Angeles playoff loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in April, with more than nine three-point shots per game, shooting 31.9% and having almost three turnovers per game. It is worth noting that Reeves recently said that his GOAT in his mind is Kobe! I wonder what James thinks?

"It's been a big season for him," said an Western Conference assistant coach. "He's better off winning this game in the playoffs because he has to be good enough (to partner with Doncic)."

There is no doubt that the smartest way to build around Doncic is to have a center running on the edge, and more importantly, have several 3D wings to surround a player who has proven to optimize these prototypes "Unless he doesn't play with the ball," a scout said of Doncic! "Otherwise you have to train him in this way."

But the Lakers are far from the only team looking for the two-way wings, which is the most sought-after commodity in the league. While the Lakers may have a lot of room for draft picks – up to three first-round picks can be used – that doesn’t mean the Lakers will be able to get those picks. Doncic also needs to hide defensively, which is another complex factor when building this roster.

The Lakers will have up to eight free agents next summer, especially James' contracts will expire. This expired fund will become a tool for Pelinka to upgrade this season and in the future!