Lakers reportedly in contract talks to re-sign $205M core trio amid free agency decisions originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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The Los Angeles Lakers know it is no secret they want to build a contending roster in free agency this summer. It marks the first real opportunity they have had to build around Luka Dončić since his arrival.

Dončić has been vocal about the types of players he wants the Lakers to target, and this offseason could be a real chance for the organization to accommodate his vision for the future.

“The Lakers have a megastar in Dončić and a unique amount of potential cap space for a title hopeful this offseason. This summer will go a long way toward determining how well they can build a championship contender around Luka over the next few years,” Silver Screen and Roll’s Bryan Toporek wrote.

One name the Lakers will be going all in for is Austin Reaves. However, his most recent postgame press conference left more questions than answers.

“I’m gonna be honest, I’ve been around for five years and you guys know me pretty well… I don’t think about much. I take life day by day and I’m just blessed to play for this organization… I don’t think about what I’m gonna do in the future,” Reaves told the media.

The Lakers are already getting to work in free agency, speaking with players who have recently come off contract before other teams can engage them. Los Angeles is in discussions with LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Reaves regarding their next contracts.

“The Lakers are in active contract discussions with LeBron James, Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura. Los Angeles figures to be active in the trade market as they prioritize re-signing this trio ahead of free agency,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery posted.

It would be a major boost if the Lakers can bring this trio back, as they have formed the core of the roster over the past several seasons. Dončić would also benefit from maintaining familiarity within the roster rather than relying solely on new additions through free agency.

Last season, the combined contracts of James, Hachimura, and Reaves totaled $205 million. This season, that figure is expected to remain in a similar range, potentially slightly lower as James no longer commands the same salary as in previous years. The Lakers understand how crucial it is to secure deals with all three players before other teams are able to enter negotiations.

More NBA news:

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• Lakers reportedly going all in to re-sign $54M cornerstone duo to build around Luka Doncic

• Mavericks trade prediction sends Kyrie Irving to Timberwolves for $100M ex-Laker, 3-time All-Star

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