Heat Emerge as a Front Runner to Land Austin Reaves this Offseason

The Miami Heat have emerged as a top contender to acquire Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves in a trade this offseason. 

According to a recent post shared by NBACentral on X, citing Bovada Official odds, the Heat are tied with the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Clippers as favorites at +400 to land the 26-year-old breakout star. 

This speculation follows Bill Simmons’ bold prediction that the Lakers will trade Reaves this summer, a move that could reshape the league’s landscape.

Reaves, who has been a key piece for the Lakers since signing a four-year, $53 million deal in 2023, averaged 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists last season, showcasing his potential as a reliable secondary scorer. 

However, his playoff struggles—where he shot just 41.1% from the field and 31.9% from three against the Minnesota Timberwolves—have fueled trade rumors. 

Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves

Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

Despite this, the Lakers reportedly value Reaves highly, with GM Rob Pelinka calling him a “pillar” of the organization. However, with the team eyeing a championship push, a blockbuster trade could be on the horizon.

If there's anything fans and analysts have learned over the recent years, it's that nobody is untouchable when it comes to having the opportunity to land a generational talent.

For the Heat, Reaves could be the perfect fit alongside Tyler Herro, addressing their need for a clutch three-point shooter and secondary scorer. 

As the offseason approaches, all eyes are on Miami and Los Angeles to see if this deal materializes, potentially altering both teams’ futures in a seismic NBA shift.