The Los Angeles Lakers are looking to re-tool their roster for the 2024-25 season by surrounding LeBron James and Anthony Davis with the right pieces. We still don’t know if LeBron will re-sign, but assuming he does, the Lakers need to find the right two-way players to make the team more efficient than they were last year. The Lakers ranked 6th in offense (118.0 PPG) and 23rd in defense (117.4 PPG) this past season, and acquiring Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins would greatly boost their play for the next few seasons.
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors are looking to revamp their roster after a disappointing campaign completely and they could use some fresh blood to pair with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. The franchise can negotiate a blockbuster deal with the Lakers with Thompson unfollowing the Warriors on X and likely out the door.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins
Golden State Warriors Receive: Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino
This trade could be one of the biggest we have seen in a few seasons and here is the analysis on both sides and the grade each team receives.
The Lakers Have A New Superteam
The Los Angeles Lakers, known for their flair and historic star power, can construct a new superteam by acquiring Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins from the Golden State Warriors. Pairing these two formidable talents with LeBron James and Anthony Davis creates a dynamic quartet that seamlessly blends scoring, defense, and versatility. Thompson’s sharpshooting prowess (38.7% 3-PT FG in 2024 and 41.3% in career) and Wiggins’ athletic two-way play are perfect complements to the Lakers’ existing core, setting the stage for a thrilling new chapter in Lakers’ lore.
Klay Thompson’s arrival in Los Angeles is a game-changer. As one of the league’s premier shooters, Thompson spreads the floor in ways that few can, providing invaluable spacing for LeBron’s drives and Davis’ post-ups. His ability to catch fire from beyond the arc will force defenses to stay honest, opening up more opportunities for James and Davis to operate.
Additionally, Thompson’s championship experience and defensive acumen make him a vital asset in high-stakes playoff scenarios, where his calm demeanor and clutch shooting can turn the tide in critical moments. Andrew Wiggins, meanwhile, brings a fresh burst of athleticism and defensive versatility after posting 13.2 points and 4.5 rebounds per game on 35.8% from three this season.
Known for his perimeter defense and ability to guard multiple positions, Wiggins will be a crucial piece in the Lakers’ quest to stifle elite wings and guards. This new superteam, with its blend of seasoned champions and rising stars, positions the Lakers as formidable contenders for the NBA title.
The Warriors Re-Tool With Young And Energetic Players
The Golden State Warriors, in their quest to remain competitive while preparing for the future, can acquire Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Jalen Hood-Schifino. These young and energetic players bring a fresh dynamic to the team, complementing the veteran presence of Stephen Curry and Draymond Green under the guidance of head coach Steve Kerr.
Austin Reaves is a versatile guard who can create his own shot and facilitate for others. His high basketball IQ and ability to play both on and off the ball make him an ideal backcourt partner for Curry as he posted 15.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game on 36.7% from three. Additionally, Reaves’ knack for making clutch plays will be a valuable asset in tight games, ensuring the Warriors maintain their competitive edge.
Rui Hachimura (13.6 PPG, 4.3 RPG) and Gabe Vincent (3.1 PPG, 1.9 APG) add depth and versatility to the Warriors’ roster. Hachimura’s size and athleticism enable him to play both forward positions, providing flexibility in Kerr’s lineups. His ability to score from mid-range and finish at the rim complements Green’s playmaking and defensive prowess.
Vincent, known for his defensive grit and three-point shooting, will bolster the Warriors’ perimeter defense and spacing. Jalen Hood-Schifino, as a young and promising guard (20 years old), offers potential for growth and development under Kerr’s mentorship, fitting into the Warriors’ long-term plans.
What Grade Should The Trade Be?
Los Angeles Lakers: A
The trade for Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins earns the Los Angeles Lakers an emphatic A. By adding these two accomplished players, the Lakers have positioned themselves for a championship run that could very well be LeBron James’ last hurrah before retirement. Thompson’s elite shooting and championship pedigree perfectly complement LeBron’s playmaking and Anthony Davis’ inside presence, creating a formidable offensive trio.
Wiggins’ defensive versatility and ability to score in transition further bolster the Lakers’ title aspirations. With this revamped roster, LeBron is now armed with the support needed to lead the Lakers to one more championship, solidifying his legacy and potentially adding another ring to his illustrious career. This move not only enhances the team’s immediate prospects but also ensures that LeBron can maximize his remaining years in the NBA, leaving an indelible mark on the Lakers’ storied history.
Golden State Warriors: C-
The trade grades out to a C- for the Golden State Warriors. While the acquisition of Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Jalen Hood-Schifino brings in youthful energy and potential, the departure of Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins represents a significant loss of experience and proven talent.
Reaves offers versatility and playmaking ability, but his impact will be a far cry from Thompson’s elite shooting and defensive capabilities. Hachimura adds size and scoring ability, yet he lacks the defensive prowess and championship experience that Wiggins brings. Vincent and Hood-Schifino provide depth and potential, but they are unproven in high-stakes situations.
For the Warriors, this trade signals a retooling phase rather than a win-now move, which could be challenging given the current championship window with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Integrating these new pieces will require adjustments from head coach Steve Kerr, who will need to balance development with maintaining competitiveness and that could be too tall of a task with the Western Conference as competitive as it is now.
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