12-08-2025
NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Reportedly Eyeing $86 million Houston Rockets Guard to Bolster Squad Around Luka-LeBron Champion Duo
Los Angeles Lakers' bold call to retain Gabe Vincent and Jarred Vanderbilt triggers heated debate (Image Source: Getty Images)
The
Los Angeles Lakers
may not be done making moves this offseason. While some believe their roster is set, others think another trade could be in the works to push them closer to championship contention.
The Proposed Deal
SB Nation's Jacob Rude recently laid out three potential trade scenarios that could boost the
Los Angeles Lakers
' chances, including one involving Dillon Brooks.
Proposed Trade
Dillon Brooks (Image via Getty)
Team
Receives
Suns
Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber
Lakers
Dillon Brooks
As Rude explained: 'From a fan favorite to a villain of the fans. Dillon Brooks immediately became the target of the fans during the Lakers' series against the Grizzlies, one that went terribly for him. He antagonized LeBron before the playoffs, then spent the series ducking reporters and getting ejected from games.'
Dillon Brooks' History with LeBron and the Los Angeles Lakers
Dillon Brooks has built a reputation as one of the league's most polarizing figures. His antics during the Lakers-Grizzlies playoff series turned him into a target for fans. However, Lakers history shows that villains can become allies - Ron Artest, Matt Barnes, and Dwight Howard all managed to redeem themselves after joining the team.
Why Brooks Could Fit in Los Angeles
• Elite Wing Defense: Brooks is widely regarded as one of the best wing defenders in the NBA.
• Capable Scorer: While streaky, he can deliver big offensive performances.
• Controlled Role: Likely to come off the bench for the Lakers, giving the team a quick hook if his on-court antics resurface.
The Reality of the Trade
At present, the move appears unlikely. The
Phoenix Suns
, who landed Brooks in the
Kevin Durant
trade, have expressed no desire to move him. In addition, the proposed offer of Gabe Vincent and Maxi Kleber is unlikely to be enough to convince them.
What Would Make It Possible for the Los Angeles Lakers
If the Los Angeles Lakers were willing to include one or two first-round picks, the Suns might reconsider - especially if they decide to pivot toward a rebuild. In that scenario, Dillon Brooks could be pried away from Phoenix.
Also read:
NBA Trade News: Los Angeles Clippers Sign $11.4 Million Golden State Warriors Star Forward in Pre-Season Roster Shakeup
Potential Sweetener
Added Asset
Impact on Sun's Decision
1 First-Round Pick
Opens door for consideration
2 First-Round Picks
Makes trade significantly more realistic
Pairing Brooks with both Luka Doncic and
LeBron James
could create a formidable combination of defensive grit and offensive potential. But for now, this remains more of a speculative 'what-if' than an imminent reality.
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