NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers reportedly eyed $60 million ex-Boston Celtics superstar to bolster squad around LeBron James and Luka Doncic

Time of India

3 days ago

Luka Doncic and LeBron James (Image via Jerome Miron, USA TODAY Sports)
Kristaps Porzingis
recently got traded to the Atlanta Hawks and things could have been different. The
Los Angeles Lakers
were reportedly considering a major offseason move, with ex-
Boston Celtics
center Kristaps Porzingis emerging as a potential $60 million target following Jrue Holiday's departure from Boston.
With the Celtics looking to shed salary, the Lakers could capitalize by acquiring the 7'3" Latvian big man to form a formidable frontcourt alongside Luka Doncic.
Why Kristaps Porzingis Makes Sense for the Los Angeles Lakers
The
Los Angeles Lakers
have been searching for a reliable third star to complement
LeBron James
and Doncic. Kristaps Porzingis, despite his injury history, brings a unique skill set that could elevate Los Angeles' championship aspirations.
Key Strengths Porzingis Would Bring:
- Elite Floor Spacing: Shot 41.2% from three last season, stretching defenses
- Size and Rim Protection: 7'3" frame with shot-blocking ability
- Playoff Experience: Key contributor to Boston's title run
The Doncic Reunion Factor
Kristaps Porzingis (Image via Getty)
Porzingis
previously played with Luka Doncic in Dallas, and while their partnership didn't reach its full potential, the Lakers might believe the 28-year-old has matured into a better fit for superstar pairings.
As noted by Bleacher Report: "Porziņģis and Dončić never quite figured it out during their time together in Dallas. But the former is at a different point in his career and has already noted he holds no ill will towards his former teammate."
How He Fits Alongside Luka Doncic:
Here is the formatted comparison table:
Lakers' Current Frontcourt
With Porzingis
Doncic at center (out of position)
Doncic at natural PF spot
Limited floor-spacing bigs
Elite stretch-five option
Defensive rebounding issues
Additional 7'3' rim protector
The Injury Concern
The biggest hurdle is Porzingis' durability:
- Only one season with 65+ games played in 9-year career
- Missed 40 games last season
- Played through illness during Celtics' playoff run
However, the Lakers may gamble that reduced regular-season minutes could keep him fresh for the postseason.
What a Trade Could Look Like
Boston needs to shed salary, while L.A. needs to match Porzingis' $30M annual contract:
Potential Los Angeles Lakers Trade Package:
- D'Angelo Russell (expiring $17.3M)
- Rui Hachimura ($15.7M)
- 2029 first-round pick
Why This Trade Works:
- Celtics get financial relief and assets
- Lakers add star power without gutting roster
Championship or Bust
For the Lakers, this would be an all-in move. When healthy, a lineup featuring:
1. LeBron James
2. Luka Doncic
3. Kristaps Porzingis
Could be the most talented frontcourt in basketball.
But it would require Porzingis to finally shake his injury woes when it matters most.
Also read:
NBA Trade Rumors: Chicago Bulls could bag $107 million ex-New York Knicks superstar to bolster squad; Patrick Williams key trade asset?
As the Celtics look to retool, the Los Angeles Lakers have a rare opportunity to acquire a difference-maker. The question is whether they're willing to bet $60 million that Porzingis can stay on the court when the games matter most.
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