The Los Angeles Lakers need to find a way to improve their roster around superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis and the hottest trade asset on their team has to be Austin Reaves. The Lakers could have three different scenarios where they could dangle Austin Reaves to stack the starting lineup, create a new Big Three, or improve the roster as much as possible.
Trade Scenario No. 1: Two Birds With One Stone
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Walker Kessler, Collin Sexton
Utah Jazz Receive: Austin Reaves, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jalen-Hood Schifino, 2026 First-Round Pick Swap
In this scenario, the Lakers address two critical needs: bolstering their frontcourt with a promising young center and enhancing their backcourt depth. Walker Kessler provides the Lakers with a defensive anchor, a shot-blocking presence who can protect the rim and rebound effectively. Kessler averaged 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game during the 2023-24 season, showcasing his potential to be a game-changer on the defensive end. His ability to alter shots and control the paint would complement Anthony Davis, potentially easing his load on the defensive end.
Collin Sexton offers an explosive scoring option off the bench or as a starting guard, providing the Lakers with additional firepower and a change of pace. Sexton averaged 18.7 points and 4.9 assists per game last season, showing his capability to penetrate and create his own shot. His aggressive offensive style can diversify the Lakers’ offensive attack, giving them a reliable scoring threat who can thrive in both transition and half-court sets.
However, parting with Austin Reaves might be a tough pill to swallow for Lakers fans. Reaves averaged 15.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game while shooting 36.7% from three-point range, developing into a versatile, high-IQ player who can handle multiple roles on the court. His playmaking, shooting, and defensive tenacity have made him a valuable asset.
Alongside Reaves, the Lakers would also be giving up Jarred Vanderbilt, who averaged 5.2 points and 4.8 rebounds per game while being a versatile defender and hustle player. Jalen Hood-Schifino, a young talent with potential, and a 2026 first-round pick swap further add to the cost of this trade, making it a significant investment in the Lakers’ future.
Trade Scenario No. 2: A New Big Three With Zach LaVine
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Zach LaVine
Utah Jazz Receive: Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Jalen-Hood Schifino
Acquiring Zach LaVine would immediately elevate the Lakers’ offense to new heights. LaVine, a two-time All-Star, averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game last season while shooting 34.9% from three-point range. His ability to score from all levels of the court and create his own shot would make him a perfect complement to LeBron James and Anthony Davis, forming a formidable new Big Three in Los Angeles. LaVine’s athleticism and scoring prowess would take some pressure off LeBron, allowing him to manage his minutes more effectively.
However, the cost of acquiring LaVine would be significant. Austin Reaves, who has become a fan favorite and a reliable contributor, would be a major loss. Rui Hachimura, who averaged 13.6 points and 4.3 rebounds per game, has also shown his value as a versatile forward capable of contributing both offensively and defensively. Gabe Vincent, coming off an injury-plagued season, adds depth and experience to the backcourt.
Including Jalen Hood-Schifino, a promising young talent, further adds to the trade’s complexity. While LaVine’s addition would undoubtedly make the Lakers a top contender, the trade would significantly alter the team’s depth and chemistry. The Lakers would need to carefully consider if the immediate boost in star power is worth the long-term potential they are giving up.
Trade Scenario No. 3: An All-Star-Caliber Reunion
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Kyle Kuzma
Washington Wizards Receive: Austin Reaves, Jarred Vanderbilt, 2030 Second-Round Pick
Bringing Kyle Kuzma back to Los Angeles would reunite the Lakers with a familiar face who has grown significantly since his initial stint with the team. Kuzma, who averaged 22.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game last season, has developed into a reliable scorer and versatile forward. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and contribute on the boards would be a valuable addition to the Lakers, providing them with a proven player who can slot into multiple roles.
However, this reunion would come at the cost of Austin Reaves, whose breakout performances in the last two seasons mean he will only get better Reaves’ emergence as a versatile, high-IQ player has made him a crucial part of the Lakers’ rotation. Additionally, losing Jarred Vanderbilt, a defensive specialist, would weaken the Lakers’ defensive capabilities and hustle plays.
The inclusion of a 2030 second-round pick in the deal adds some long-term considerations, but the immediate impact would be more pressing. While Kuzma’s proven scoring and familiarity with the Lakers’ system would be beneficial, the team would need to weigh this against the loss of Reaves’ versatility and Vanderbilt’s defense. This trade could enhance the Lakers’ offensive depth, but it would also require adjustments to maintain their defensive intensity and overall balance.
