By Sunday 
When ESPN’s Brian Windhorst drops a “0.0% chance” prediction, people listen. And when it’s about Austin Reaves — one of the Lakers’ most important young stars — fans definitely tune in. So, what’s going on with this supposed no-chance contract extension talk? Let’s break it down.
Windhorst’s Cold Take — Or Just Real Talk?
According to Windhorst, there’s “a 0.0% chance Austin Reaves signs a contract extension — and a 99.9% chance he opts out of his $14.8 million player option for next season.”
Harsh? Maybe. But he’s not exactly wrong.
Reaves has steadily climbed from being an undrafted rookie to one of the Lakers’ most reliable players. His game — a mix of smart playmaking, sneaky scoring, and relentless energy — has made him a key piece beside LeBron James and (now) Luka Dončić.
Given that trajectory, why would Reaves lock himself into a deal now when his market value could skyrocket next summer?
It’s Not About Loyalty — It’s About Leverage
Before fans start panicking, let’s make one thing clear: opting out doesn’t mean opting out of the Lakers.
It means Reaves wants to get paid what he’s worth — and he’s earned that right.
The Lakers will still be favorites to re-sign him. Windhorst even emphasized that LA remains the front-runner, even if no extension happens now. Reaves just knows the market will look a lot friendlier when he’s a free agent.
Think of it as smart business, not betrayal.
Could the Lakers Trade Him? Probably Not.
Some corners of Lakers Twitter have tossed around trade ideas — but let’s be real, moving Reaves right now would make no sense. He’s the perfect third piece next to LeBron and Luka. His contract is manageable, his chemistry is solid, and his ceiling is still rising.
Unless the Lakers are landing another star-level player in return (which is unlikely midseason), Reaves is staying put.
The Bigger Picture
The “0.0% chance” quote sounds brutal, but it’s really a reflection of timing, not tension. The Lakers’ front office knows Reaves’ value. They also know that patience here could pay off — both for the team and for Reaves himself.
So for now, the plan is simple: focus on the season, let Reaves keep growing, and revisit the money talk when the time is right.
In short: Windhorst isn’t predicting a breakup. He’s just reminding us that in today’s NBA, even loyalty comes with a price tag — and Austin Reaves is finally in a position to name his.