NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Eye $12,822,000 Golden State Warriors Guard to Boost Backcourt and Improve LeBron Title Odds

Time of India

12 hours ago

LeBron James at the Playoffs against the Timberwolves (Image via Imagn).
The
Los Angeles Lakers
are reportedly considering a move for
Golden State Warriors
guard
De'Anthony Melton
this offseason. After a disappointing first-round playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Lakers are looking to strengthen their roster, particularly their backcourt depth.
Melton, a 27-year-old two-way player, could provide the defensive grit and outside shooting the Lakers need.
Why De'Anthony Melton Fits the Los Angeles Lakers
The
Los Angeles Lakers
struggled with depth in their playoff run, especially in the backcourt. De'Anthony Melton, a 6-foot-2 combo guard, brings experience, perimeter defense, and reliable three-point shooting—qualities that would complement stars
LeBron James
and Luka Doncic.
LeBron James in Game 2 (Image via Imagn)
Before suffering a season-ending ACL sprain, Melton showed promise in his short stint with the Warriors, averaging:
- 10.3 points
- 3.3 rebounds
- 2.8 assists
- 1.2 steals
- 37.1% three-point shooting (on a career-high 5.8 attempts per game)
Dean Simon of The Sporting News
notes: "Melton could be utilized as a perfect backcourt partner for the slower-footed Doncic on the defensive end and a consistent catch-and-shoot threat on offense."
Los Angeles Lakers vs Golden State Warriors: The Battle for De'Anthony Melton
Golden State
may try to re-sign De'Anthony Melton on a team-friendly deal to keep him alongside
Stephen Curry
. However, the Lakers could offer a more lucrative contract, potentially swaying the guard to join their championship pursuit.
De'Anthony Melton's previous success as a Sixth Man of the Year candidate (2021-22 with the Memphis Grizzlies) makes him an attractive option for a Lakers team in need of reliable bench production.
Key Reasons Los Angeles Lakers Should Pursue Melton
- Elite Perimeter Defense – Helps contain opposing guards.
- Reliable Three-Point Shooting – Addresses spacing issues.
- Playoff Experience – Contributed to deep postseason runs with Memphis and Golden State.
- Affordable Contract – Estimated at around $12 million per year.
While center remains the Lakers' top priority, adding a guard like Melton would significantly improve their rotation. His ability to defend multiple positions and knock down open threes makes him an ideal fit alongside James and Doncic.
If the Lakers can outbid the Warriors, Melton could become a key piece in their quest for another title.
Also read:
NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Could Bag $13,372,418 Utah Jazz Rookie to bolster team around deadly Luka-LeBron duo; Austin Reaves key trade asset?
Would you like Melton on the Lakers, or should they prioritize other positions? Let us know your thoughts.