Particularly disappointing in that series was guard Austin Reaves, the undrafted fourth-year ballhandler who has developed into a star-quality player, averaging 20.2 points this season. But he flopped in the postseason, averaging 16.2 points on just 41.1% shooting against the Wolves, with 31.9% shooting from the 3-point line.

If Reaves pushes for a deal nearing $200 million, as some insiders believe he might, the Lakers may be forced to explore sign-and-trade scenarios to recoup assets rather than risk losing him for nothing. The ideal return would include size, defense, and playoff toughness, traits L.A. sorely lacked against Minnesota.

The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly do not want to trade Austin Reaves this offseason and view him very highly as a franchise cornerstone.