Austin Reaves' huge star turn has gifted the Lakers the chance for a perfect roster

Despite the Los Angeles Lakers' recent struggles, the future looks very bright. They managed to steal Luka Doncic away from the Dallas Mavericks for a song. Doncic, paired with superstar LeBron James, gives the Lakers a much-needed upgrade, but they are still a work in progress.

Fortunately, they already have the foundations for a great team, especially with the emergence of Austin Reaves, who's having himself a breakout season. Reaves' sudden star turn is a game-changer for the Lakers, who suddenly have a third star. Reaves has posted big numbers over the last 10 games, averaging 25.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.3 assists.

Better still, he is under contract for the next two seasons for just a combined $27 million. That is far cheaper than a star with similar production levels, making Reaves one of the best value contracts in the NBA. Not just that, but it gives the Lakers a unique opportunity this summer.

The Los Angeles Lakers' Austin Reaves' star turn gives them plenty of options.

With Doncic under contract for at least another season and Reaves on a cheap deal for the next two seasons, the Lakers have an opportunity to build a real contender next year. That could involve LeBron opting out and taking less money, as well as Dorian Finney-Smith doing the same by signing a longer-term deal for a cheaper annual salary.

That cap maneuverability would allow them to avoid the tax aprons and allow them to use their full mid-level exception. The full mid-level exception would give them around $15 million that they could offer to a free agent or two. That could allow them to sign-and-trade for a center such as Clint Capela.

Depending on how much he could cost, they could even add another big man to solidify their weakest position at center. A core of Doncic, LeBron, and Reeves, plus a legitimate starting center and a solid supporting cast, should be enough to get them back into title contention.

After all, the West is still very much in flux, with the Denver Nuggets essentially married to the roster due to the second apron and the Memphis Grizzlies having fired the coach despite having a strong season. If the Lakers can wisely maneuver this summer, they can make the most of Reaves' cheap contract to get what they need.

Ultimately, Reeves' strong play of late has proven that he can be an elite third option and potentially even a second option once LeBron retires. Assuming he can continue to play at a high level, then the Lakers could already have a third star on their roster and could be that much closer to winning it all either this season or next season.