NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to acquire 6-feet-8 New Orleans Pelicans big man to support LeBron-Luka power duo
LeBron James and Alex Caruso in Los Angeles Lakers (Image via Nathaniel S. Butler/ Getty Images)
The
Los Angeles Lakers
are reportedly considering a major offseason move to strengthen their roster around newly acquired superstar
Luka Dončić
. After landing Dončić in a blockbuster trade before the February deadline, the Lakers are now eyeing New Orleans Pelicans forward
Trey Murphy III
as a potential long-term fit next to the Slovenian phenom.
Why Trey Murphy III Fits the Los Angeles Lakers' Plans
With LeBron James turning 40 next season, the
Los Angeles Lakers
are looking for a young, two-way wing who can contribute immediately while also serving as a cornerstone for the future. Murphy III, a 24-year-old standout, fits that description perfectly.
Pelicans' Asking Price for Murphy III
According to reports, the Pelicans are demanding a significant return for Murphy III, who has drawn interest from multiple teams.
Chris Dodson of ClutchPoints
provided insight into New Orleans' expectations: "A serviceable veteran who can log postseason minutes, a decent prospect, and multiple first-round picks is the starting point." (H/t
Sporting News
)
The Los Angeles Lakers could meet these demands by offering:
- Rui Hachimura (proven veteran)
- Dalton Knecht (promising rookie)
- Multiple first-round picks
Trey Murphy III's Rising Value
New Orleans Pelicans vs Los Angeles Lakers. Image via: William Liang/ AP
Trey Murphy III is coming off a career-best season, making him a hot commodity:
Stat
2024-25 Performance
Points
21.2 PPG
Rebounds
5.1 RPG
Assists
3.5 APG
3P%
36.1%
His ability to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions makes him an ideal fit for the Lakers' system under head coach
JJ Redick
.
How a Trade Could Unfold
The Lakers have several reasons to pursue Murphy III:
1. Immediate Impact – He provides scoring and defense alongside Dončić and James.
2. Future Building Block – At 24, he aligns with Dončić's timeline.
3. Versatility – His size (6'8') and shooting allow him to play multiple roles. Potential Trade Package
- Outgoing: Rui Hachimura, Dalton Knecht, multiple first-round picks
- Incoming: Trey Murphy III
This deal would give the Pelicans a win-now piece (Hachimura), a developmental prospect (Knecht), and draft capital, while the Lakers secure a high-upside wing.
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The Los Angeles Lakers are in win-now mode but must also plan for life after LeBron. Trey Murphy III represents the perfect balance—a player who elevates their current roster while also serving as a long-term solution.
Also read:
NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers might bag $104,720,000 Memphis Grizzlies star to for Big 3 along with LeBron-Luka duo; Austin Reaves prime trade asset?
As Dodson noted, "Several contenders view Trey Murphy III as the missing piece; rebuilders view him as a foundational talent." For the Lakers, he could be both.
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LeBron James and Alex Caruso in Los Angeles Lakers (Image via Nathaniel S. Butler/ Getty Images) The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly considering a major offseason move to strengthen their roster around newly acquired superstar Luka Dončić . After landing Dončić in a blockbuster trade before the February deadline, the Lakers are now eyeing New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III as a potential long-term fit next to the Slovenian phenom. Why Trey Murphy III Fits the Los Angeles Lakers' Plans With LeBron James turning 40 next season, the Los Angeles Lakers are looking for a young, two-way wing who can contribute immediately while also serving as a cornerstone for the future. Murphy III, a 24-year-old standout, fits that description perfectly. Pelicans' Asking Price for Murphy III According to reports, the Pelicans are demanding a significant return for Murphy III, who has drawn interest from multiple teams. Chris Dodson of ClutchPoints provided insight into New Orleans' expectations: "A serviceable veteran who can log postseason minutes, a decent prospect, and multiple first-round picks is the starting point." (H/t Sporting News ) The Los Angeles Lakers could meet these demands by offering: - Rui Hachimura (proven veteran) - Dalton Knecht (promising rookie) - Multiple first-round picks Trey Murphy III's Rising Value New Orleans Pelicans vs Los Angeles Lakers. Image via: William Liang/ AP Trey Murphy III is coming off a career-best season, making him a hot commodity: Stat 2024-25 Performance Points 21.2 PPG Rebounds 5.1 RPG Assists 3.5 APG 3P% 36.1% His ability to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions makes him an ideal fit for the Lakers' system under head coach JJ Redick . How a Trade Could Unfold The Lakers have several reasons to pursue Murphy III: 1. Immediate Impact – He provides scoring and defense alongside Dončić and James. 2. Future Building Block – At 24, he aligns with Dončić's timeline. 3. Versatility – His size (6'8') and shooting allow him to play multiple roles. Potential Trade Package - Outgoing: Rui Hachimura, Dalton Knecht, multiple first-round picks - Incoming: Trey Murphy III This deal would give the Pelicans a win-now piece (Hachimura), a developmental prospect (Knecht), and draft capital, while the Lakers secure a high-upside wing. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free Solitaire. No Ads Ever. Play Solitaire Download Undo The Los Angeles Lakers are in win-now mode but must also plan for life after LeBron. Trey Murphy III represents the perfect balance—a player who elevates their current roster while also serving as a long-term solution. Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers might bag $104,720,000 Memphis Grizzlies star to for Big 3 along with LeBron-Luka duo; Austin Reaves prime trade asset? As Dodson noted, "Several contenders view Trey Murphy III as the missing piece; rebuilders view him as a foundational talent." For the Lakers, he could be both.
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