The Detroit Pistons entered the 2026 NBA offseason with hopes of picking up a player like Austin Reaves. Ultimately, Reaves went back to the Los Angeles Lakers.
It was the obvious move for the sharpshooter, who developed a strong bond with the superstar, Luka Doncic.
But as the Lakers go through tons of changes–from losing LeBron James to shockingly selling to new ownership–Luka watch is already being sprinkled in as a potential narrative for the upcoming season.
Similar to how every team watched Giannis Antetokounmpo over the past year, and how they’ll have eyes on Nikola Jokic, the NBA insider Tim McMahon believes that there is a reality where Luka lands in similar territory.
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 10: Luka Doncic #77 and Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers react during the first quarter against the Utah Jazz at Crypto.com Arena on February 10, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
“Just like Joker can profess his loyalty to the Nuggets, there’s still going to be teams that are positioned themselves and monitoring that and all that kind of thing. It’s the same thing with Luka Doncic,” McMahon said on The Hoop Collective.
“He’s done nothing but express optimism and excitement about the Lakers since he signed that extension. But it’s not that long-term of an extension, and you better believe there’s teams around the league that are looking at that situation and saying, ‘hey, if this thing goes sideways, we’d sure like to get Luka in the midway through his prime.’”
Why This Matters For The Pistons
GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – MARCH 18: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers celebrates with Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on March 18, 2026 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
As long as Cade Cunningham is running the offense and maintaining his high level of play, the Pistons probably won’t eye up Luka as a future target.
Instead, the situation becomes interesting for their recent target, Reaves.
The Pistons wanted Reaves because he would’ve been an A-plus complementary piece to Cunningham and the rest of the lineup.
The 28-year-old just signed a four-year, $184 million deal, which starts at $41 million in 2026-2027. It’s a hefty price, but the Pistons would’ve been willing to go high for Reaves if he were willing to take off on the open market.
A scenario where Reaves wants out of LA is unlikely at this time, but it’s a situation worth monitoring for the Pistons. The Lakers haven’t seen life without LeBron in nearly a decade, and Luka is coming off an injury-riddled season. The Lakers have a ton of pressure that they are facing going into the new season.
Reaves remains a long shot for Detroit, but the Lakers have a lot going on. He’s worth keeping in mind.