The Washington Wizards likely won't be contending for a championship in 2025-26, but the direction of the franchise is changing quickly. Next summer, they will have their shot to chase a free agent that fits their timeline and vision: Austin Reaves. The current Lakers guard is set to hit free agency in 2026, and his skillset and availability line up with everything Washington should be looking for.
Los Angeles likely won't be able to re-sign Reaves. Unless they trade him or re-sign him with cap space they do not have, the most likely outcome is that Reaves hits the open market unrestricted. At that point, it becomes a matter of who wants him the most and who can offer him the clearest role. The Wizards could check both boxes.
Washington has added some talent in the backcourt this offseason, with Cam Whitmore being the biggest name. If the team can add a high-IQ, unselfish guard who also brings tough shot-making and playoff experience as well, it would accelerate their rebuild without forcing them to deviate from the long-term plan. Reaves has played plenty of high-stakes basketball in Los Angeles, but he is only 27 years old and still climbing toward his peak.
Washington may want to target Reaves
The Athletic's Sam Vecenie recently predicted that Reaves could command a deal in the range of four years and $160 million. That would price out a number of capped-out teams, and it may even turn away some playoff hopefuls who are prioritizing flexibility.
But for Washington, it might be the right kind of swing. The Wizards will likely have the room to make that offer, and few players on the market next summer will check more boxes than Reaves does.
This would not be about pushing all their chips in or trying to leap up the standings overnight. It would be about adding a cornerstone piece in the right age bracket who makes everyone else on the roster better. Reaves has shown that he can play next to a star, but also carry a second unit when needed. That versatility could be especially useful on a Wizards team that is still defining its identity.
There is no guarantee that Washington ends up as a top suitor, but if they are serious about moving forward with intent, Reaves is exactly the kind of player they should be targeting. The opportunity will be there, and the question is whether the Wizards are ready to take it.