Newsletter
Fadeaway World
  • Fadeaway World
  • NBA News & Analysis
  • NBA Trade Rumors
  • NBA News & Media
  • Exclusive Interviews
  • NBA 2K
Reading: 3 Stars The Lakers Could Land For A Package Centered Around Austin Reaves
Fadeaway WorldFadeaway World
Search
  • Fadeaway World
  • NBA News & Analysis
  • NBA Trade Rumors
  • NBA News & Media
  • Exclusive Interviews
  • NBA 2K
Follow US
Home > NBA News & Analysis > Los Angeles Lakers News & Analysis > 3 Stars The Lakers Could Land For A Package Centered Around Austin Reaves

3 Stars The Lakers Could Land For A Package Centered Around Austin Reaves

The Los Angeles Lakers were bounced in the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves, and there are three star players they can acquire to form a dominant superteam ahead of next season.

Eddie Bitar
May 2, 2025
9 Min Read
Share

Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Lakers just got a hard dose of reality in the 2025 Playoffs in the form of a gentleman’s sweep at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves. They were outclassed on both ends of the court as Anthony Edwards and company made them look slow, predictable, and outdated. 

Contents
  • 1. Lauri Markkanen
  • 2. Zach LaVine
  • 3. Anfernee Simons

For a franchise built on banners and superteams, losing in five games in the first round of the playoffs has to be considered somewhat of a crisis. Especially when you consider LeBron James is staring down his 41st birthday next year, and the Lakers’ bold gamble to pair him with Luka Doncic hasn’t produced the ultimate prize (yet). 

The front office knows time is running out. That’s where Austin Reaves comes in. The undrafted gem turned into an excellent third option this season, averaging 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 37.7% shooting from deep. His chemistry with LeBron and Luka has been real. 

But if the Lakers want to cash in and bring in another star to form a true Big Three, Reaves is their best and most movable asset: young, productive, and on a reasonable contract.

With the West only getting tougher and LeBron’s clock ticking, L.A. has no choice but to think big. We’ve identified three star players the Lakers can realistically target by putting Reaves on the table this offseason. 


1. Lauri Markkanen

San Antonio Spurs guard Chris Paul (3) dribbles the ball around Utah Jazz forward/center Lauri Markkanen (23) during the first half at the Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images

Proposed Trade Details

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Lauri Markkanen

Utah Jazz Receive: Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Dorian Finney-Smith (Sign-and-Trade), 2031 First-Round Pick, 2026 First-Round Pick Swap

This is the home run swing. Lauri Markkanen, fresh off averaging 19.0 points and 5.9 rebounds this season while shooting 34.6% from deep in a down year, would be a dream fit next to LeBron and Luka. Remember, this is the same player who posted 23.2 points and 8.2 rebounds per game last season. 

The Lakers have badly needed a floor-spacing big who can punish defenses when they load up on their stars. Markkanen, at 7 feet tall, gives L.A. size and versatility, allowing them to play big without sacrificing spacing. He’s entering his prime and doesn’t need the ball to thrive, which is critical alongside two ball-dominant superstars.

From Utah Jazz’s perspective, this deal makes sense. The Jazz are shifting gears after another terrible season (17-65), and Austin Reaves gives them a young, proven combo guard. 

Rui Hachimura adds scoring punch at the forward spot, and Dorian Finney-Smith provides veteran leadership and defense. Add in two future picks, including a 2031 first, and this is a package that balances present and future assets for Utah.

For the Lakers, this move forms a true Big Three: Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Lauri Markkanen. Imagine the pick-and-pop game between Luka and Lauri, or LeBron feeding him for transition threes. 

It solves L.A.’s spacing issues instantly while giving them another All-Star-caliber scorer who can carry the offense when needed. If Rob Pelinka wants to go all in for 2025-26, this is the most seamless and dangerous fit on the board.


2. Zach LaVine

Mar 10, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Zach LaVine (8) dribbles the ball up the court against the New York Knicks during the third quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

Proposed Trade Details

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Zach LaVine

Chicago Bulls Receive: Austin Reaves, Dorian Finney-Smith (Sign-and-Trade), Jarred Vanderbilt, 2031 First-Round Pick

Zach LaVine has had a turbulent run with the Chicago Bulls before ending up with the Sacramento Kings, but let’s not forget: when healthy, he’s one of the most explosive scorers in the league. Before his injury-shortened 2024-25 campaign, LaVine still managed to average 23.3 points on 51.1% shooting, including a respectable 44.6% from three. 

His ability to create off the dribble and light up defenses in bunches would give the Lakers the offensive firepower they lacked during their playoff flameout against Minnesota. Luka and LeBron can set the table, LaVine can break it with 30-point outbursts on any given night.

The Bulls, meanwhile, are in teardown mode after another lottery-bound season. Moving off LaVine’s sizable contract for a package headlined by Reaves, a younger, cheaper, and more team-friendly guard, allows them to reset while staying competitive. 

Jarred Vanderbilt adds defensive grit and versatility, and Dorian Finney-Smith, on a sign-and-trade, gives Chicago a wing stopper they can flip later for more assets. Plus, the 2031 first-round pick adds long-term value for their rebuild.

But let’s be real: this trade is risky for the Lakers. LaVine’s health and hefty contract are question marks. But if the goal is to maximize the LeBron-Luka window, this gamble makes sense. LaVine would give them the best pure scorer they’ve had since peak Anthony Davis, and with defenses already stressed guarding Luka and LeBron, LaVine could feast. 


3. Anfernee Simons

 Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons (1) controls the ball against Sacramento Kings guard Kevin Huerter (9) during the first quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

Proposed Trade Details

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Anfernee Simons

Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Austin Reaves, Jarred Vanderbilt, 2031 First-Round Pick

If the Lakers want to get younger and add a guard who fits seamlessly next to Luka and LeBron, Anfernee Simons is their guy. The 25-year-old quietly put up strong numbers on a bad Portland team (36-46) this year: 19.3 points and 4.8 assists per game while hitting 36.3% of his threes. 

He’s a knockdown shooter with deep range, a capable secondary playmaker, and most importantly, he doesn’t need 20 shots a night to make an impact, which is an ideal third option in a superteam setup.

Portland, on the other hand, is leaning fully into its youth movement with Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe. Trading Simons clears the runway for their backcourt of the future while bringing back Reaves, who offers similar versatility and two-way effort. 

Jarred Vanderbilt adds a defensive presence the Blazers sorely need, and a future first-round pick gives them more draft capital to build around Scoot and Sharpe. It’s a clean, logical deal for both sides.

For L.A., Simons offers less star power than LaVine or Markkanen, but arguably a better fit. His off-ball shooting would punish teams that double Luka or LeBron. Plus, he’s young enough to grow with Luka post-LeBron, making him a bridge between eras. 

This is the smart trade (not the flashiest) but potentially the most sustainable if L.A. wants to contend both now and in the years ahead.

Follow on Google News

Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us on Google News. We appreciate your support.

TAGGED:Austin ReavesLeBron JamesLos Angeles Lakers ArchiveLuka DoncicRob Pelinka
Share This Article
Facebook Email Copy Link Print
ByEddie Bitar
Eddie Bitar is a senior staff writer for Fadeaway World from Denver, Colorado. Since joining the team in 2017, Eddie has applied his academic background in economics and finance to enhance his sports journalism. Graduating with a Bachelor's degree from and later a Master's degree in Finance from Utrecht in 2018, he integrates statistical analysis into his articles. This unique approach provides readers with a deeper understanding of basketball through the lens of financial and economic concepts.Eddie's work has not only been a staple at Fadeaway World but has also been featured in prominent publications such as Sports Illustrated. His ability to break down complex data and present it in an accessible way creates an engaging and informative way to visualize both individual and team statistics. From finding the top 3 point shooters of every NBA franchise to ranking players by cost per point, Eddie is constantly finding new angles to use historical data that other NBA analysts may be overlooking.A lifelong basketball fan, Eddie grew up trying to mimic Jason Kidd's game. When asked which NBA player, past or present, he would most like to interview, Eddie's choice is clear: Jason Kidd. He admires Kidd's genius at playing point guard and his ability to lead a team to two NBA Finals appearances. Eddie believes Kidd is an underrated star who deserves more praise, and he would relish the opportunity to pick his brain and discuss the intricacies of the game.
Previous Article 8 Proven Centers The Lakers Could Acquire In 2025 Offseason
Next Article “That Jumpshot At The White House Cost Me $50 Million”: Craig Hodges Explains Getting Blackballed From The NBA
Leave a Comment

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Newsletter

Stay up to date with our newsletter on the latest news, trends, ranking lists, and evergreen articles

Newsletter
Facebook X-twitter Instagram

You Might Also Like

Golden State Warriors Trade Rumors

Warriors Target Bam Adebayo As A Long Term Solution For Center Position

October 3, 2025
Minnesota Timberwolves News & Analysis

Anthony Edwards Gets Real On Putting “Belt To A**” On Elite Players Like Kevin Durant, LeBron James, Stephen Curry

October 3, 2025
Feb 5, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Sacramento Kings forward Domantas Sabonis (11) looks on during the third quarter against the Orlando Magic at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
Brooklyn Nets Trade Rumors

NBA Trade Idea: Kings Land Nets Center To Provide Domantas Sabonis With Support In Frontcourt

October 3, 2025
Houston Rockets Trade Rumors

Russell Westbrook Likes Rockets IG Photo With Kevin Durant, Steven Adams; Big Reunion Upcoming?

October 3, 2025

NBA - Fadeaway World

  • Atlanta Hawks
  • Boston Celtics
  • Brooklyn Nets
  • Charlotte Hornets
  • Chicago Bulls
  • Cleveland Cavaliers
  • Dallas Mavericks
  • Denver Nuggets
  • Detroit Pistons
  • Golden State Warriors
  • Houston Rockets
  • Indiana Pacers
  • Los Angeles Clippers
  • Los Angeles Lakers
  • Memphis Grizzlies
  • Miami Heat
  • Milwaukee Bucks
  • Minnesota Timberwolves
  • New Orleans Pelicans
  • New York Knicks
  • Oklahoma City Thunder
  • Orlando Magic
  • Philadelphia 76ers
  • Phoenix Suns
  • Portland Trail Blazers
  • Sacramento Kings
  • San Antonio Spurs
  • Toronto Raptors
  • Utah Jazz
  • Washington Wizards

Pages

  • NBA Trade Rumors
  • NBA Media
  • Exclusive NBA Interviews
  • NBA 2K News & Updates

© 2025 Fadeaway World @ All Rights Reserved

  • About Fadeaway World
  • Fadeaway World Authors
  • Editorial Team
  • Ethics Policy
  • Corrections Policy
  • Editorial Guidelines
  • Fact-Checking Policy
  • Contact Us
Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address
Password

Lost your password?