NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Could Sign $121 Million Golden State Warriors Superstar; LeBron James Key Trade Asset?
A new blockbuster mock trade scenario has surfaced, suggesting a massive shake-up for the
Los Angeles Lakers
that would see
LeBron James
and his son
Bronny
shipped to the
Golden State Warriors
in exchange for
Jimmy Butler
and a future first-round pick.
The Proposed Trade between the Lakers and the Warriors
Sports Illustrated's Dan Angell outlined the trade concept, explaining the Lakers' potential reasoning behind such a bold move.
'The Lakers really don't love the idea of taking on Jimmy Butler's contract, especially with LeBron's contract due to expire at the end of the 2025-26 season,' Angell wrote. 'They want to be free of LeBron's contract, but there's no way to do that before the end of 2026 without taking equal value back.'
Under the proposal, the Lakers would:
• Send
LeBron James
and Bronny James to the Golden State Warriors
• Receive Jimmy Butler and a 2028 first-round pick in return
Lakers-Warriors Trade Structure
LeBron James is currently with the Los Angeles Lakers (Image via Getty Images)
Team
Receives
Lakers
Jimmy Butler, 2028 1st-round pick
Warriors
LeBron James, Bronny James
Why the Los Angeles Lakers Would Consider It
The idea centers on the
Los Angeles Lakers
beginning a post-LeBron era, potentially building around Luka Doncic in the future. The additional 2028 first-round pick would help stockpile assets for long-term roster construction.
According to Angell, Butler would keep the Lakers competitive in the short term while providing strong defensive and offensive contributions despite being 36 years old.
Key Reasons for Lakers' Interest:
• Avoid long-term financial commitment to LeBron
• Add future draft capital
• Maintain playoff competitiveness with Butler
• Transition toward a Luka Doncic-led core
The Golden State Warriors' Side of the Deal
The
Golden State Warriors
reportedly acquired Butler from the Miami Heat in early February, seeking a spark for a struggling team. His arrival delivered results, as Golden State finished with 48 regular-season wins and claimed the No. 7 seed after winning their Play-In game.
Jimmy Butler's 2024-25 Postseason Impact
Series/Stage
Stats (per game)
Western Conference Semifinals vs. Timberwolves
20.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, 5.6 assists
Although Butler had quieter moments in the second round against Minnesota, his production came with Stephen Curry sidelined due to a Grade 1 calf strain.
While LeBron James remains the superior talent and is five years younger than Butler, the hypothetical trade suggests the Los Angeles Lakers could still contend with Butler as their third star.
Also read:
NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Reportedly Eyeing $86 million Houston Rockets Guard to Bolster Squad Around Luka-LeBron Champion Duo
For the Golden State Warriors, pairing LeBron with Curry - alongside the arrival of Bronny - would create a fresh narrative and potentially extend their championship window.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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