The NBA offseason always brings a whirlwind of rumors and hypothetical trades, and this summer is no exception. As teams look to reshape their rosters and build for the future, a blockbuster 5-team trade scenario has emerged. Imagine Lauri Markkanen suiting up for the Knicks, Kyle Kuzma making his return to the Lakers, and Julius Randle finding a new home with the Spurs. This mock trade is packed with excitement and drama, potentially shaking up the league landscape. Here’s a closer look at how this trade could unfold and what it means for the teams involved.
Trade Proposal
Lakers receive: Kyle Kuzma, Walker Kessler
Knicks receive: Lauri Markkanen
Spurs receive: Julius Randle, 2025 second-round pick (Nets), 2025 second-round pick (Pistons)
Jazz receive: Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Zach Collins, 2025 first-round pick (Pistons), 2025 first-round pick (Bucks), 2029 first-round pick (Lakers)
Wizards receive: D’Angelo Russell, Gabe Vincent, Drew Eubanks, 2031 first-round swap rights (Lakers)
In a massive 5-team trade proposal, the NBA landscape could see a significant shake-up with several key players on the move. The Lakers would welcome back Kyle Kuzma alongside rising talent Walker Kessler, adding depth and versatility to their frontcourt. The Knicks, in turn, would bolster their roster with the sharpshooting Lauri Markkanen, providing a new dynamic to their offense.
Meanwhile, the Spurs would acquire Julius Randle, along with two valuable second-round picks in 2025, aiming to add more firepower and veteran presence to their lineup. The Jazz would receive a substantial haul, including Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Zach Collins, and three first-round picks, setting them up for a bright future. The Wizards would get D’Angelo Russell, Gabe Vincent, Drew Eubanks, and a 2031 first-round swap right, adding experience and potential to their roster. This trade scenario, if executed, would undoubtedly set the stage for an exciting new season.
The Lakers Get Some Needed Boost
The Los Angeles Lakers are looking to make a splash this offseason by orchestrating a series of trades to boost their roster significantly. In this ambitious five-team trade, the Lakers send Rui Hachimura and Jarred Vanderbilt to the Utah Jazz, along with a future first-round pick, in exchange for promising big man Walker Kessler. Additionally, they ship out D’Angelo Russell, Gabe Vincent, and a 2031 first-round swap right to the Washington Wizards in return for a familiar face, Kyle Kuzma.
Kyle Kuzma returns to the Lakers after averaging 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game with the Washington Wizards last season. His ability to stretch the floor and create his own shot would add a new dimension to the Lakers’ offense. Walker Kessler, a rising star, brings a formidable defensive presence, having averaged 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game with the Jazz. His shot-blocking and rebounding abilities would be crucial for the Lakers, who have lacked a dominant interior defender since their 2020 championship run.
The potential starting lineup of Austin Reaves, Kyle Kuzma, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Walker Kessler could form one of the largest and most versatile lineups in the league. This lineup boasts a perfect blend of scoring, playmaking, and defense. Reaves’ emerging talent, combined with Kuzma’s scoring, LeBron’s leadership, Davis’ versatility, and Kessler’s defense, would help the Lakers regain their lost identity from their 2020 championship team. This new look would allow the Lakers to compete against the elite teams in the West and contend for another title.
Despite failing to land big names like Klay Thompson, James Harden, or DeMar DeRozan, the Lakers have managed to bring in players who fit their needs perfectly. Kuzma’s familiarity with the team and Kessler’s defensive prowess could prove to be the missing pieces in their quest for another championship. This trade would not only rejuvenate the Lakers’ roster but also give them a renewed sense of identity and purpose heading into the new season.
A Complete Superteam In New York
After making a significant move by acquiring Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets and re-signing OG Anunoby, the New York Knicks are now focused on adding another offensive star to their roster. The Knicks traded Bojan Bogdanovic, four unprotected first-round picks (2025, 2027, 2029, 2031), a 2025 first-round pick from the Bucks, and a second-round pick to the Nets to secure Bridges, solidifying their perimeter defense and adding a versatile scorer.
In this new five-team trade scenario, the Knicks would send Julius Randle and some valuable future picks to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for Lauri Markkanen. Markkanen, who had an impressive season with the Utah Jazz, averaged 23.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while shooting 48.0% from the field and 39.9% from three-point range. This offensive prowess is a stark contrast to Julius Randle’s 2024 stats of 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, but Randle struggled with inefficiency and playoff performance in previous seasons. Moreover, he missed the 2024 playoffs due to a shoulder injury, following a less-than-stellar postseason performance in 2023. Markkanen’s outside shooting would be a huge improvement in fit and offensive flow for a Knicks team that is heavily focused on the defensive side of the floor. With Brunson, Markkanen and Bridges as scorers, the Knicks could thrive.
Acquiring Markkanen would provide the Knicks with a more consistent and versatile scoring threat who can stretch the floor and create space for other players. A potential lineup of Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Lauri Markkanen, and Mitchell Robinson would offer a perfect balance of offense and defense. Markkanen’s ability to play both forward positions and his shooting range would complement Brunson’s playmaking and Bridges’ all-around game, giving the Knicks a more dynamic and effective offense.
This trade would capitalize on the Knicks’ collection of future picks, turning them into an immediate upgrade that could help the team contend in the highly competitive Eastern Conference. With Markkanen in the fold, the Knicks would be well-positioned to make a serious run in the playoffs, potentially bringing a championship to New York for the first time in decades.
The Spurs Get Assets And A Partner For Wembanyama
The San Antonio Spurs make a savvy move by acquiring Julius Randle and two second-round picks, giving up only Zach Collins. With Chris Paul already on the roster and Victor Wembanyama poised for All-Star status, adding a competitive power forward like Randle could propel the Spurs into a serious playoff contender. They also have Harrison Barnes, who joined via trade when DeMar DeRozan was sent to the Kings.
Randle brings a blend of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking that complements Wembanyama’s defensive prowess and versatility. Randle’s ability to stretch the floor and create his own shot would take pressure off Wembanyama, allowing the young star to focus on dominating the paint and honing his defensive skills.
Pairing Randle with Wembanyama creates a formidable frontcourt duo, with Randle’s experience and physicality balancing Wembanyama’s athleticism and shot-blocking. With Chris Paul’s veteran leadership and playmaking, along with Barnes’ steady scoring and defense, the Spurs have a well-rounded and competitive lineup capable of making a deep playoff push.
The acquisition of Randle not only provides immediate impact but also adds depth and versatility to the Spurs’ roster. This trade signifies the Spurs’ commitment to building a competitive team around their young star, setting the stage for a potentially exciting and successful season.
Utah Gets A Haul Of Picks And Young Talent
The Utah Jazz are making strategic moves to build for the future by trading away Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler. Recent trade rumors have indicated a high level of interest in both players, with the Jazz reportedly willing to consider significant offers for Markkanen and Kessler. The Jazz’s decision to part ways with these key players highlights their focus on accumulating assets for a long-term rebuild.
Lauri Markkanen has drawn attention from several teams, including the Warriors, Spurs, Kings, Timberwolves, and Pelicans, with Utah only willing to trade him if they receive a substantial return similar to the haul Brooklyn received for Mikal Bridges. Meanwhile, Walker Kessler has also been a subject of trade discussions, with the Jazz open to moving him as they explore various options to reshape their roster.
In this five-team trade, the Utah Jazz receive a significant return by moving Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler. They acquire Rui Hachimura, who averaged 13.6 points and 4.3 rebounds per game in 2024, adding valuable scoring and size. Jarred Vanderbilt, a defensive specialist, contributed 5.2 points and 4.8 rebounds per game, enhancing their defensive versatility. Zach Collins provided solid numbers with 11.2 points and 5.4 rebounds per game. Additionally, the Jazz secure three first-round picks: a 2025 first-round pick from the Pistons, a 2025 first-round pick from the Bucks, and a 2029 first-round pick from the Lakers. These assets are crucial for the Jazz’s long-term rebuilding efforts, allowing them to select high-potential players in upcoming drafts and positioning them to become a formidable contender in the future.
The Wizards Get A Point Guard And A Future Pick
In this multi-team trade, the Washington Wizards move Kyle Kuzma to the Lakers, addressing their chaotic season last year by acquiring D’Angelo Russell. The Wizards gain a seasoned point guard who can bring stability and balance as they navigate their rebuilding phase. Last season, Russell averaged 18.0 points, 6.3 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game, offering a reliable scoring and playmaking presence. Alongside him, they get Gabe Vincent and Drew Eubanks, providing solid depth at each position.
Additionally, the Wizards benefit from a future pick swap with the Lakers in 2031, giving them more flexibility in future drafts. This trade complements their recent move of sending Deni Avdija to the Blazers. In the trade for Avdija, the Wizards received a protected 2025 first-round pick, further bolstering their draft assets.
By adding Russell and these additional assets, the Wizards aim to create a more balanced and competitive roster while looking ahead to develop their young talent and build for long-term success. This strategic acquisition helps the Wizards address immediate needs while positioning themselves for a brighter future.
