Austin Reaves is currently sidelined due to a Grade 2 gastrocnemius strain. Reportedly, the Lakers star may not return until February but his name has still found its way into headlines. LeBron James’ agent, Rich Paul, recently sparked controversy after floating a hypothetical trade idea involving Reaves in exchange for Memphis Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr.
The comment led to speculation about whether it could create tension between Reaves and James. It would not be unreasonable for Reaves to at least think about saying something to LeBron regarding his agent’s remarks. However, on his No Foul Given show, former NBA star Paul Pierce explained why that conversation would never actually happen.
“But you not going to say something,” Pierce said. “Reaves is not about to go up to Bron in practice and be like Yo what’s up with your man. Bron be like get the trade done now.”
Paul Pierce says Austin Reaves not crazy for thinking to say something to Lebron about Rich Paul commenting on trading him for Jaren Jackson
“But you not going to say something. Reaves is not about to go up to Bron in practice and be like Yo what’s up with your man. Bron be like… pic.twitter.com/94VXcCDaAt
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) January 14, 2026
In the latest episode of his podcast, Rich Paul directly addressed the situation. He made it clear that there was no real substance behind the idea.
“My guy Reggie, who is Austin’s agent, we talked,” Paul said. “We talked about it and I’m like, look Reggie, you’re my man. I want Austin to know this is not about Austin Reaves because I love the player, love the person. Two, I actually need him to help me with my golf game. I’m not trying to mess up anything with AR. This was a hypothetical take. Not something that was going to happen.”
Reaves will be eligible this summer to sign a contract extension with the Lakers worth up to five years and $241 million. The team already made it clear they have no plans to move him. Hence, an extension appears far more likely than any trade involving Reaves.
Rich Paul Explains LeBron James’ Reaction to Austin Reaves Trade Talk
Rich Paul’s comments became so widespread that reporters eventually brought the topic to LeBron James himself. Paul later addressed that aspect as well and explained how James handled being asked about the situation.
“He understands,” Paul said. “This is not a podcast playground. We’re in the content business. I’m a business man first, this is a business. This is my business just like he has his business. I think it’s a respectful behavior that we have towards one another.”
While Paul may not have anticipated the reaction his comments would generate, the trade chatter ultimately brought unwanted attention to both him and James. The discussion even raised concerns within the Lakers’ inner circle, though the franchise’s stance on keeping Reaves remains unchanged.
