Austin Reaves Reacts to Luka Dončić’s Lakers Minicamp in Slovenia

Luka Dončić’s plan to bring the Los Angeles Lakers together in Slovenia appears to have Austin Reaves ready for some friendly competition.

When asked about Dončić hosting the team for a minicamp in his home country, Reaves immediately turned his attention to one item on the itinerary.

“I’m going to feel great. I’m going to kick his ass in golf.”

The lighthearted response, shared by Marili Andre and credited by LakersMuse, offered a glimpse into the relationship between L.A.’s two leading guards. More importantly, it showed that Reaves is embracing Dončić’s attempt to bring a dramatically reshaped roster together before training camp.

ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported that Dončić will host the Lakers for four days in August. The trip is expected to include workouts, golf, sightseeing around Ljubljana and opportunities for players to bond.

The timing of the trip is important after one of the busiest offseasons in franchise history.

Los Angeles retained Reaves on a four-year, $180 million contract but otherwise reshaped much of the roster around him and Dončić. The Lakers added Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes, Collin Sexton, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Kevon Looney, Ziaire Williams and Matisse Thybulle, among others.

That turnover created a younger and deeper roster, but it also gave the Lakers several players who have little experience playing together. Informal workouts will not replace a full training camp, though four days overseas could help establish relationships before the team begins installing its system.

Dončić’s decision to organize the gathering also reflects his growing leadership role following LeBron James’ departure for the Philadelphia 76ers. The Lakers are now unquestionably built around Dončić, and the Slovenia trip gives him an early opportunity to set the tone.

Rookie Cameron Carr reportedly will be unable to attend because of the NBA’s mandatory Rookie Transition Program. The remainder of the roster is expected to participate.

Reaves will be central to whatever the Lakers accomplish next season.

The 28-year-old averaged career highs of 23.3 points, 5.5 assists and 4.7 rebounds across 51 games in 2025-26. He shot 49% from the field, 36% from 3-point range and 87.1% at the free-throw line.

His production earned him the largest contract ever given to an undrafted player, according to ESPN. It also solidified his place alongside Dončić as one of L.A.’s foundational players.

The two guards already have experience sharing offensive responsibilities, but their partnership will be tested differently without James. Both will have to create shots, involve a collection of new teammates and establish themselves as the locker room’s most prominent voices.

That work will become more serious once training camp arrives. For now, Reaves seems prepared to begin the Lakers’ season with workouts, team bonding and a golf match against their franchise player.