NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Eye Shocking Reaves-for-Jazz Pick Swap in High-Stakes Gamble
The
Los Angeles Lakers
are reportedly exploring a bold trade that would send fan-favorite
Austin Reaves
to the
in exchange for a package centered around the No. 5 pick in the
2025 NBA Draft
.
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The proposed deal has sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some seeing it as a necessary move to balance the roster while others view it as a risky gamble.
(Disclaimer: The information and analysis presented in this article are based on current speculations. While the details are sourced from credible insights, it's important to note that these are not confirmed moves or official statements. Readers are encouraged to take this analysis with a grain of salt and stay tuned for official updates as the offseason unfolds.)
Why the Los Angeles Lakers Might Trade Austin Reaves
According to
, the
see Reaves as "redundant alongside Dončić," making him expendable in a deal that could bring in much-needed frontcourt help. The trade would allow LA to draft Duke's Khaman Maluach, a 7'2" center who could immediately contribute as a rim-runner and rebounder alongside LeBron James and Luka Dončić.
Potential Trade Breakdown
Jazz Receive
Lakers Receive
Austin Reaves
No. 5 pick (Khaman Maluach)
Jordan Clarkson
Kyle Filipowski
Key Pieces in the Deal
- Khaman Maluach: An 18-year-old athletic big man with NBA-ready skills developed at Duke. His ability to catch lobs, defend the rim, and rebound would fill a glaring need for the Lakers.
- Jordan Clarkson: A former Sixth Man of the Year who could bolster LA's bench scoring. His expiring contract also provides future financial flexibility.
- Kyle Filipowski: A depth piece who adds frontcourt versatility but is considered more of a secondary asset in this trade.
Why This Trade Makes Sense for the Lakers
1. Addressing Roster Imbalance – With Reaves seen as overlapping with Dončić's playmaking, moving him for a true center like Maluach could optimize the lineup.
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2. Short-Term and Long-Term Gains – Clarkson provides immediate scoring punch, while Maluach offers long-term upside as a defensive anchor.
3. Financial Flexibility – Clarkson's expiring deal allows the Lakers to reassess their roster needs in the 2026 offseason.
Why Fans Might Hate This Move
According to Colin, Reaves has become a beloved figure in LA due to his clutch performances and underdog story. Trading him for an unproven rookie and a veteran scorer could be seen as a step back, especially if Maluach takes time to develop.
As Keane notes, "Could the Lakers get a better offer for Reaves? Sure, but not by a lot." While controversial, this trade could give the Lakers a more balanced roster, better suited to compete in a loaded Western Conference.
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