Image Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

“Reaves Doesn’t Like Playing With Luka, LeBron Also Wants Out” – NBA Insider Spills Beans on Lakers Locker Room Divide

NBA insider drops a shocking report on the Lakers' internal conflicts

Image Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

All might not be well within the Lakers’ roster especially within their core. The side’s off season strategy is also telling a tale where players are reportedly wanting to leave the franchise for a fresh start.

NBA insider John Gambadoro claims the Lakers’ roster is showing signs of internal fracture following the arrival of Luka Doncic earlier this year. The Slovenian who joined the Bay Area side in February in one of the most shocking trades is reportedly the centerpiece of the rift.

Austin Reaves reportedly declined a four-year contract from the Lakers and is now considering options elsewhere. According to John Gambadoro, Austin Reaves is unhappy playing beside Luka Doncic and believes that the Slovenian doesn’t elevate his game.

Austin Reaves has declined a max contract extension offer from the Los Angeles Lakers that would have paid him $89.2 million over four seasons, per @DanWoikeSports

(h/t @RealGM ) pic.twitter.com/JHuA61zOz7
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 26, 2025

John Gambadoro said, “Reaves does not like playing with Luka. Reaves does not like getting the ball with two seconds left on the shot clock.” In Luka Doncic’s absence, Reaves averaged 19.8 points, 6.3 assists, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals while shooting 45% from the field and 36.2% from deep.

Reaves was offered a four year deal worth $89.2 million this offseason but he declined the offer. The youngster is betting on himself to further improve in the upcoming season and draw an even bigger salary.

LeBron Pushing for Lakers Exit

It’s not just Reaves, even LeBron James has reportedly expressed dissatisfaction playing alongside Luka Doncic. The 40-year-old is looking for a trade after opting-in his $52.6 million player option last week.

John Gambadoro on James’s situation said, “This is Luka’s team now. He’ll probably come back, but I wouldn’t say it’s a guaranteed no-brainer that LeBron comes back to the Lakers because there are guys that don’t like playing with Luka. I was told this after the playoffs by someone close to Lebron. Lebron wants out of LA and they want him gone.”https://x.com/TheDunkCentral/status/1938274528679104911

LeBron is reportedly focused on chasing one final championship, but sources suggest he no longer believes the Lakers can get him there.