Austin Reaves chose Kobe Bryant as his top pick after he was asked to weigh in on the GOAT discussionAustin Reaves and LeBron James (Image Credit: Imagn)
The Los Angeles Lakers have witnessed the rise of numerous legendary players throughout their history. Yet, few have captured the hearts of fans and the basketball world like Kobe Bryant and LeBron James. These two icons are frequently at the center of the ongoing debate about the NBA’s GOAT.

Recently, Lakers star Austin Reaves was asked to weigh in on the GOAT discussion. Without a moment’s hesitation, Reaves chose Kobe Bryant as his top pick.

“I’m gonna go Kobe, I’m a huge Kobe fan,” he confidently said.

Bryant’s legacy transcends his five NBA championships and numerous scoring records. The “Black Mamba” was revered for his clutch performances that defined an era of Lakers basketball. On the other hand, James has redefined what it means to be a dominant force in the modern NBA. His longevity and leadership have solidified his place among the all-time greats.

NBA Executive Predicts Austin Reaves Will Secure Big Free Agency Deal After Breakout Season

Austin Reaves Austin Reaves (Image Credit: Imagn)

An anonymous NBA executive recently made a bold prediction about Austin Reaves. Speaking to ESPN, the executive forecasted that the rising star will land a contract more than $39 million in free agency.

“I think he will get $30 [million] plus,” the executive said.

The undrafted player has steadily grown into a key contributor for the Lakers. His current contract extends through the 2025-26 season. But with his recent surge in performance, many teams are likely to compete for his services once he hits free agency.

Last season marked a breakthrough year for Reaves. He delivered career-best averages of 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game. His improved scoring and playmaking have made him an invaluable asset in the Lakers’ backcourt.