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Home > NBA Trade Rumors > Los Angeles Lakers Trade Rumors > Every NBA Team’s Best Trade Package For LeBron James: Could The King Be Traded?

Every NBA Team’s Best Trade Package For LeBron James: Could The King Be Traded?

LeBron James is always in the headlines for one reason or another but if he were to leave the Lakers, nearly every NBA team might have a package ready.

Eddie Bitar
Dec 12, 2024
40 Min Read
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Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

There is no doubt that LeBron James is one of the greatest players of all time, and has consistently been one of the most untradeable players in the league since his rookie season. No matter the available package, The King would never be dangled as trade bait. The reason was that the man was capable of carrying just about any team to championship contention, especially in his prime. But as he has aged, James’ impact has slightly waned even if his numbers still look superstar-level (23.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 9.1 APG).

Contents
  • 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
  • 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

At nearly 40 years old, James is in the final stages of his career, and time is of the essence for him. The Los Angeles Lakers are in win-now mode but they might have to accept the fact that the roster is stuck as currently constructed because a 13-11 record and the 8th seed in the West is no fluke. The Lakers simply do not have the talent around LeBron James and Anthony Davis to win it all. 

If LeBron James does not want to waste his final seasons on an unspectacular Lakers roster, he could ask for a trade. Of course, any deal involving James would have to include his son, Bronny, as well. Regardless of LeBron’s commitment to staying right now, things could change in an instant and James might be hungry enough for his fifth championship and force a trade. 

To entertain that idea, here are the trade packages that each NBA team can possibly offer for LeBron James. While it is unlikely that a top-5 player of all time would ever be traded, it would be interesting to consider the best and most realistic trade offer each NBA franchise could offer for a short-term, rental of LeBron (and Bronny) James.


Atlanta Hawks

Trade Offer For LeBron James: De’Andre Hunter, Bogdan Bogdanovic, 2025 First-Round Pick (SAC), 2029 First-Round Pick (ATL)

The Atlanta Hawks could make an ambitious move to bring LeBron James and Bronny to pair with Trae Young (20.9 PPG, 12.2 APG) and Jalen Johnson, forming a star-studded lineup that could contend in the Eastern Conference. No doubt, this trade would elevate their star power and put them in championship contention, capitalizing on LeBron’s leadership and experience. 

De’Andre Hunter (19.3 PPG, 4.0 RPG), a strong two-way wing, gives the Lakers a valuable building block with defensive versatility and scoring potential. The two first-round picks give the Lakers flexibility for their future, particularly the 2029 pick, which could be valuable if Atlanta’s contention window closes. 


Boston Celtics

Trade Offer For LeBron James: N/A

The Boston Celtics would not mess with their chance to win an NBA championship this season by engaging in any blockbuster trade because Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are untouchable, and the likes of Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, and Derrick White will be the perfect partners to them. 

Acquiring a player of LeBron’s caliber would cause chemistry issues which is not needed at all considering the Celtics won the NBA title last year and are favorites again this year. Expect the Celtics to stay put this season although they will probably look to bolster their bench rather than making a blockbuster deal. 


Brooklyn Nets

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Cam Thomas, Cameron Johnson, Bojan Bogdanovic

The Brooklyn Nets pulling the trigger on this deal would be their loudest statement since the Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving era. LeBron James, even at 40, would electrify Barclays Center and instantly make the Nets a formidable contender in the East alongside Mikal Bridges and Nic Claxton. The package heading to the Lakers is respectable but not overwhelming. 

Cam Thomas is a certified bucket-getter (24.7 PPG), capable of putting up points in bunches, while Cameron Johnson offers sharpshooting (18.8 PPG, 43.4% 3-PT FG) and defensive reliability to complement Anthony Davis. Bojan Bogdanovic adds veteran scoring and playoff experience, though his timeline doesn’t quite align with a full Lakers rebuild.


Charlotte Hornets

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Miles Bridges, Grant Williams, Vasilije Micic, 2026 First-Round Pick (CHA), 2027 First-Round Pick (DAL)

This trade is a bold move for the Charlotte Hornets, a franchise eager to elevate their profile and finally contend in the postseason. Adding LeBron James and Bronny alongside LaMelo Ball would give the Hornets a dynamic blend of veteran leadership and youthful flair, creating the most compelling team in franchise history.

For the Lakers, Miles Bridges brings high-scoring ability (16.5 PPG) and defensive versatility, while Grant Williams is a tough, high-IQ forward who can stretch the floor (37.7%) and defend multiple positions. Vasilije Micic, the former EuroLeague MVP turned NBA player, provides intriguing playmaking and shooting depth. The two first-round picks sweeten the deal, particularly the 2026 Charlotte pick, which could fall in the lottery if things don’t pan out in the short term. 


Chicago Bulls

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Zach LaVine, Matas Buzelis, 2030 First-Round Pick (CHI)

The Chicago Bulls making a push for LeBron James would signal their intent to reclaim relevance and make a legitimate run in the East. Zach LaVine, a two-time All-Star with elite scoring ability (22.1 PPG), gives the Lakers an offensive centerpiece to pair with Anthony Davis. Matas Buzelis, a highly touted rookie with size, skill, and immense upside, could be a cornerstone for Los Angeles’ long-term future.

For Chicago, the deal would instantly revitalize the franchise. LeBron, even at 40, brings unmatched basketball IQ, leadership, and a chance to make noise in the playoffs as the greatest talent for the franchise since Michael Jordan. Adding Bronny to the mix also gives the Bulls a youthful storyline, complementing veterans like Nikola Vucevic. 


Cleveland Cavaliers

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Darius Garland, Isaac Okoro, 2031 First-Round Pick (CLE)

LeBron James returning to Cleveland for a third stint? Now that’s a storyline to rock the NBA. For the Cavaliers, this move would symbolize going all-in to win now, pairing LeBron and Bronny with Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley in a quest for another championship. 

The cost is steep—Darius Garland is an All-Star guard with elite scoring (20.5 PPG) and playmaking abilities (6.5 APG), and Isaac Okoro is a young, defensive-minded wing with potential. The 2031 first-round pick could be valuable, especially as Cleveland transitions to a post-LeBron future once again.

For the Lakers, this deal would offer a strong mix of current talent and future flexibility. Garland would step in as a franchise cornerstone alongside Anthony Davis, creating a dynamic one-two punch.

Okoro brings energy and defense, while the distant pick adds to the Lakers’ rebuilt arsenal. While giving up Garland might hurt, Cleveland fans would likely welcome the King back with open arms, ready to embrace another championship chase—and the unique father-son legacy he’d bring along.


Dallas Mavericks

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Klay Thompson, P.J. Washington, Daniel Gafford, Quentin Grimes, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2025 Second-Round Pick

This trade would drastically shake up the Mavericks, pairing LeBron James with Luka Doncic and former teammate Kyrie Irving to form an undeniable star-studded trio. The offensive firepower of Doncic, Irving, and LeBron could put Dallas in championship contention immediately. Of course, the Lakers would have to likely include another player or two in the deal for the deal to work but the goal will be to ultimately bring LeBron to Dallas by any means. 

Klay Thompson, a proven shooter and four-time champion, adds immediate value for the Lakers, giving them a floor spacer (13.3 PPG on 37.4% this season) and veteran presence who has thrived in high-pressure situations. P.J. Washington’s versatility as a forward, Grimes’ youth, and Daniel Gafford’s interior presence would both complement Anthony Davis in terms of depth, adding balance to the Lakers’ roster.

For Dallas, this is a bold move to accelerate their championship window, but it comes with a serious risk of mortgaging future flexibility. LeBron may be in the twilight of his career, but his impact alongside Doncic and Irving means they could have a strong chance to finally unseat the Boston Celtics in the Finals this year. 


Denver Nuggets

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Michael Porter Jr., Christian Braun, Zeke Nnaji, 2031 First-Round Pick (DEN)

The Denver Nuggets making a move for LeBron James would be a statement of their championship ambitions, taking their already stacked roster to another level. Pairing LeBron with reigning three-time MVP Nikola Jokic would give Denver an all-time duo capable of dominating both ends of the court. 

Michael Porter Jr. brings elite shooting and length (19.0 PPG, 7.1 RPG on 38.8% 3-PT FG), offering immediate scoring alongside Anthony Davis. Christian Braun, a swingman with defensive potential and energy, could develop into a useful rotational piece for the Lakers, while Zeke Nnaji provides solid depth in the frontcourt.

The 2031 first-round pick may seem far off, but it offers future value as the Nuggets’ championship window could begin to close as key players age. From a Lakers perspective, this package has some solid young talent, but it’s likely a tough sell without a more immediate star in return for LeBron. 

Still, the Nuggets would essentially be guaranteeing themselves a spot in the West’s elite, and the opportunity to run with a LeBron-Jokic combo would be too tempting to pass up. For the Lakers, this is a long-term play with a solid mix of youth and future assets.


Detroit Pistons

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Tobias Harris, Tim Hardaway Jr., Ron Holland II, 2027 First-Round Pick (DET), 2031 First-Round Pick (DET)

This trade offer from the Detroit Pistons represents a mix of experienced veterans and young potential. Tobias Harris, a reliable scorer and versatile forward (14.1 PPG, 6.9 RPG), would help ease the loss of LeBron by providing the Lakers with immediate scoring and leadership. 

Tim Hardaway Jr., known for his shooting and offensive prowess (career 36.0%), brings perimeter shooting, which the Lakers desperately need. Ron Holland II, a promising rookie, adds youth and upside, while the two first-round picks (2027 and 2031) give the Lakers significant future assets to rebuild or use in further trades.

For Detroit, this is a big gamble to accelerate their rebuilding process with LeBron and Bronny, turning the Pistons into an instant playoff contender with Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, and LeBron forming a new trio. 


Golden State Warriors

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Andrew Wiggins, De’Anthony Melton, Gary Payton II, 2029 First-Round Pick (GSW)

A LeBron James trade to the Golden State Warriors would create an instant superteam in the West, pairing The King with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green for a run at another title. No surprise, the Warriors have shown interest in acquiring The King. 

The Warriors have a deep roster, and this trade offers a mix of versatility and defensive prowess. Andrew Wiggins is a perfect complement to Anthony Davis, providing elite defense and scoring (17.2 PPG, 4.4 RPG), while De’Anthony Melton brings perimeter defense and a spark off the bench when healthy (10.3 PPG, 2.8 APG in six appearances). Gary Payton II, with his tenacity and defensive ability, is a valuable piece for any title contender.

For the Warriors, this trade would push them all in on one last championship run, with LeBron adding a new dimension to their offense and leadership. While losing Wiggins stings, his production is replaceable in the short term, and adding LeBron gives Golden State the chance to cement their dynasty.


Houston Rockets

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Steven Adams, 2027 First-Round Pick (PHX)

This trade offer from the Houston Rockets is an ambitious move to catapult themselves into championship contention. Jalen Green, the centerpiece of the package, is a dynamic scorer with star potential (19.5 PPG, 4.7 RPG), making him an appealing addition to the Lakers’ core while Dillon Brooks (12.8 PPG, 3.7 RPG) brings elite defense on the perimeter. 

For Houston, acquiring LeBron James would pair him with a young roster including Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., and possibly Bronny James. Adding LeBron’s leadership and championship pedigree could transform the Rockets into playoff threats instantly. 

While losing Jalen Green stings for a franchise focused on the future, LeBron’s ability to elevate a team is a once-in-a-generation opportunity, and expect head coach Ime Udoka to go after this trade at all costs if it is feasible. 


Indiana Pacers

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Myles Turner, Obi Toppin, Aaron Nesmith, 2028 First-Round Pick (IND)

The Indiana Pacers’ offer for LeBron James prioritizes filling roster gaps for the Lakers while giving the Pacers a shot at immediate contention. Myles Turner would be a massive defensive anchor alongside Anthony Davis (15.3 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 2.0 BPG), forming one of the most intimidating frontcourts in the league. 

His ability to stretch the floor also complements Davis’ interior dominance. Obi Toppin brings athleticism and energy and Aaron Nesmith adds shooting and wing depth, critical needs for the Lakers.

For the Pacers, adding LeBron James alongside Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam would create a dominant Big Three, making them a legitimate Eastern Conference contender to contend the Celtics and Knicks. Having two elite playmakers and a capable forward means the Pacers would be exceptional in the modern NBA. 


Los Angeles Clippers

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Kawhi Leonard, 2031 Second-Round Pick (LAC)

The idea of a straight swap between LeBron James and Kawhi Leonard is nothing short of headline-worthy. For the Clippers, this trade would signify a bold move to replace one superstar with another, banking on LeBron’s durability and leadership over Kawhi’s often frustrating injury history. 

LeBron, even as he approaches 40, offers consistency and an unmatched ability to elevate his teammates. Pairing him with James Harden and Norman Powell would instantly reignite their championship aspirations.

For the Lakers, acquiring Kawhi Leonard is a gamble on elite two-way play. When healthy, Kawhi is one of the best in the league, capable of carrying a team through playoff battles. However, his health concerns and sporadic availability make this a risky proposition. 

Adding only a 2031 second-round pick alongside Leonard doesn’t do much to sweeten the deal for the Lakers, who might prefer a younger, more reliable star or additional draft assets.

This deal has drama written all over it—LeBron in Clippers blue and Kawhi donning Lakers gold would turn L.A. into the center of the basketball universe, but the real question is whether both teams would be willing to roll the dice.


Memphis Grizzlies

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Desmond Bane, Brandon Clarke, 2026 First-Round Pick (MEM)

Imagine the Memphis Grizzlies bringing in LeBron James to lead their pack of young wolves—sounds like a dream, right? This trade offer of Desmond Bane, Brandon Clarke, and a 2026 first-rounder is Memphis throwing their chips into the center for a title run. Bane, a sharpshooting star on the rise, is a hefty price to pay, but pairing LeBron with Ja Morant creates a combo of experience and explosive talent that could dominate the West.

For the Lakers, Bane offers an instant offensive spark and a defensive upgrade—he’s the kind of building block who could help carry the torch post-LeBron (14.5 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 4.1 APG on 32.3% 3-PT FG this season). Brandon Clarke, when healthy, is a versatile forward who complements Anthony Davis’ skill set with his energy and rim protection (7.4 PPG, 4.9 RPG). Add in the 2026 pick, and it’s a solid haul for L.A.

The real appeal for Memphis? The King would instantly change the Grizzlies’ identity from scrappy upstarts to legitimate championship contenders. It’s bold, it’s risky, and it would make Memphis the center of the NBA universe for at least a couple of seasons. 


Miami Heat

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Jimmy Butler, 2026 Second-Round Pick, 2028 Second-Round Pick

Talk about a full-circle moment—LeBron James heading back to South Beach, where his legend as a champion truly began. The Heat’s offer of Jimmy Butler and two future second-round picks is as Miami as it gets: bold, direct, and dripping with win-now vibes. 

Swapping Butler for LeBron would keep the Heat in the title conversation, but with a slightly different flavor—more playmaking, less rugged intensity. For the Lakers, Jimmy Butler is a proven leader and clutch performer (19.0 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 4.8 APG) who could fit perfectly alongside Anthony Davis. 

While Butler doesn’t bring the same offensive dynamism as LeBron, his grit and two-way dominance would ensure L.A. stays competitive in the West. The second-rounders are nice, but they’re not moving the needle much—this deal is all about Butler.

From Miami’s perspective, adding LeBron to a roster that still features Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro would be a statement that Pat Riley isn’t done chasing titles. Of course, Butler’s heart-and-soul presence will be missed, but there’s only one King. 


Milwaukee Bucks

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Damian Lillard

Here is a blockbuster that could shake the NBA to its core: Dame Time for King James. The Bucks, fresh off their daring acquisition of Damian Lillard last year, would be rolling the dice again by flipping him for LeBron. 

On paper, this trade pairs LeBron with Giannis Antetokounmpo, creating an absolutely terrifying duo that would have the basketball world buzzing. The thought of LeBron as the maestro and Giannis as the unstoppable force is enough to make every team in the East quake.

For the Lakers, getting Damian Lillard is a gift. Dame is still in his prime posting 25.8 points and 7.6 assists per game, and his elite scoring and leadership would bring fresh energy to Los Angeles. Pairing him with Anthony Davis gives the Lakers a lethal inside-out combo that could keep them firmly in contention. Lillard doesn’t address the Lakers’ depth issues, but when you’ve got Dame dropping 30 a night, they will figure it out.

This trade screams “all-in” for both sides. Milwaukee betting on LeBron to deliver another ring while the Lakers snag one of the best closers in the game—it’s the kind of high-stakes deal that makes the NBA endlessly exciting. 


Minnesota Timberwolves

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, 2025 Second-Round Pick (UTA), 2026 Second-Round Pick (UTA), 2029 Second-Round Pick (MIN)

This Timberwolves trade package feels more like quantity than quality when it comes to the price of acquiring The King. Julius Randle is a solid player (20.4 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.0 APG), but his iso-heavy style and inconsistent defense aren’t exactly the attributes you’d expect in a blockbuster centerpiece for LeBron James. 

Donte DiVincenzo and Nickeil Alexander-Walker are capable role players, sure, but they don’t exactly move the needle for a Lakers team still hungry to compete for titles. For the Lakers, this deal might look appealing only because of Randle’s ability to put up numbers, but his fit alongside Anthony Davis could be clunky at best. The trio of second-round picks sprinkled across the next few years doesn’t scream “franchise-altering assets” either.

From Minnesota’s side, LeBron would elevate their playoff ceiling overnight because this roster with LeBron, superstar Anthony Edwards, and Rudy Gobert screams title favorite. The Timberwolves better be banking on LeBron’s championship magic to make this gamble worth it in the end. 


New Orleans Pelicans

Trade Offer For LeBron James: CJ McCollum, Herb Jones, 2027 First-Round Pick (MIL), 2030 First-Round Pick (NOP)

The Pelicans’ offer for LeBron James feels like a mix of pragmatism and ambition. CJ McCollum is a proven scorer and leader (20.3 PPG, 3.9 APG), while Herb Jones is a young defensive stud who could anchor the Lakers’ perimeter for years to come (10.7 PPG, 1.9 SPG). Toss in two valuable first-round picks, and New Orleans makes a compelling case for the King.

For the Lakers, McCollum adds offensive firepower and veteran savvy, making him a solid running mate for Anthony Davis. Herb Jones would give them a much-needed infusion of youth and defensive intensity, potentially locking down the opponent’s best player every night. The draft picks sweeten the deal, especially with Milwaukee’s 2027 first looking more enticing as time passes.

From the Pelicans’ perspective, landing LeBron to pair with Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram would be a seismic shift in the Western Conference. While giving up Jones and future picks hurts, a roster led by LeBron instantly vaults New Orleans into serious title contention.

Is it a risk? Of course. But in the high-stakes world of the NBA, sometimes you have to bet big to win big—and the Pelicans just might have the right pieces to make it worth it.


New York Knicks

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, Mitchell Robinson, 2025 First-Round Pick (WAS), 2025 Second-Round Pick (BOS or MEM), 2026 Second-Round Pick (BOS or WAS swap rights)

The Knicks‘ offer for LeBron James is a robust package of talent, defense, and draft capital. Mikal Bridges, a budding two-way star posting 16.9 points and 3.6 rebounds per game, gives the Lakers a player who can score efficiently, defend at an elite level, and fit seamlessly alongside Anthony Davis. Josh Hart, with his hustle and versatility, brings energy and defensive intensity (13.9 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 5.5 APG), while Mitchell Robinson provides rim protection and rebounding prowess to bolster the Lakers’ interior.

From the Knicks’ standpoint, this trade is the ultimate splash, pairing LeBron James with Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and OG Anunoby to form one of the most stacked lineups in recent memory. LeBron’s leadership and playmaking could unlock new dimensions for the Knicks’ offense while giving them a legitimate shot at Eastern Conference supremacy over the Boston Celtics. 

It’s a bold move for New York, but it aligns with their appetite for marquee names and high-pressure situations. While the Knicks would miss Bridges’ versatility and Hart’s heart-and-soul energy, bringing The King to Madison Square Garden might finally end their decades-long championship drought.


Oklahoma City Thunder

Trade Offer For LeBron James: N/A

The Thunder won’t be able to engage in a trade for LeBron James considering the structure of their payroll. Prime MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is obviously untouchable and so is 22-year-old Chet Holmgren. Even if the Thunder were to include Isiaha Hartenstein ($30 million) in a deal, filling out the rest of the deal would be very difficult which makes it unfeasible for them to offer a package. 


Orlando Magic

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Jalen Suggs, Jonathan Isaac, Cole Anthony, 2025 First-Round Pick (DEN), 2026 First-Round Pick (ORL)

The Magic’s trade offer for LeBron James is a blend of potential and risk, leaning heavily on young talent and draft capital. Jalen Suggs is a promising defensive guard whose offensive continues to develop (16.6 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 3.8 APG) while Jonathan Isaac, when healthy, has shown flashes of being an elite defender with intriguing versatility (6.5 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 1.4 BPG). Cole Anthony brings scoring and energy off the bench but is more of a complementary piece.

For the Lakers, this package feels like a bet on untapped potential rather than a guaranteed return. Suggs and Isaac could shine in the right system, but injuries and inconsistency have defined their careers so far. The two first-round picks are nice assets, with the 2026 pick holding greater value as the Magic’s rebuild progresses.

From Orlando’s perspective, acquiring LeBron James is a massive gamble but also an exciting opportunity to fast-track their rise in the Eastern Conference. Pairing LeBron with Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner could make the Magic an instant title-contender, blending veteran leadership with young talent. 


Philadelphia 76ers

Trade Offer For LeBron James: N/A

The Philadelphia 76ers won’t include Tyrese Maxey in any deal considering the point guard is 23 years old, and the fact that Joel Embiid is making over $50 million this season means a deal cannot be reached. Paul George’s deal won’t be feasible either considering he is making over $49 million as well, and the Sixers can’t bring James’ contract on board without moving any of these three stars. Overall, there isn’t a package on the table right now. 


Phoenix Suns

Trade Offer For LeBron James: N/A

The Suns are paying Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal max deals and each of them are making more than LeBron James. The Suns might be able to include Booker in a trade for James but that would be too much of a risk for a nearly 40-year-old superstar. Booker is only 28 years old and has at least seven years left at an elite level so the Suns won’t be welcoming James into their roster anytime soon.


Portland Trail Blazers

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Anfernee Simons, Deni Avdija, 2031 First-Round Pick (POR)

The Portland Trail Blazers‘ offer for LeBron James blends offensive upside and potential, but it’s a tough sell for the Lakers considering the stage of LeBron’s career. Anfernee Simons is a gifted scorer with shooting range (16.5 PPG, 4.4 APG on 32.3% 3-PT FG) that could complement Anthony Davis, but his defensive deficiencies and inconsistency might be a concern for a Lakers team looking to compete immediately. 

Deni Avdija offers intriguing defensive versatility and playmaking potential (11.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG), but he’s still developing and hasn’t fully broken through as a reliable starter. The 2031 first-round pick offers potential down the road but is far too distant to significantly impact the Lakers’ win-now window.

For the Blazers, this trade is about giving the fans something to be happy about. While LeBron’s presence in Portland could certainly elevate their profile, this deal feels too dependent on the future without providing enough of a present-day return for the Lakers. Portland would be betting on LeBron taking them to another level, but the lack of immediate assets could also be a deal-breaker for the Lakers. 


Sacramento Kings

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Keegan Murray, Malik Monk, Kevin Huerter, 2027 First-Round Pick (SAC), 2029 First-Round Pick (SAC)

Sacramento’s trade offer for LeBron James will be in an effort to create a monster Big Four with De’Aaron Fox, Domantas Sabonis, and DeMar DeRozan. No doubt, there is enough talent here to win an NBA championship but it would be a matter of if LeBron James would want to be coached by Mike Brown again. 

Meanwhile, Keegan Murray is an emerging star with an elite shooting touch and strong defensive potential, making him an intriguing fit for the Lakers’ future. Malik Monk, is a dynamic scorer and playmaker who could provide immediate offensive punch alongside Anthony Davis. Kevin Huerter, known for his sharpshooting, offers floor spacing and perimeter shooting, something the Lakers could use. 

The two first-round picks offer long-term flexibility, with the 2027 pick likely to be in a more favorable position for the Lakers in the event of a Kings’ rebuild. However, this trade may fall short in terms of the star power and veteran leadership the Lakers would require to keep competing in the immediate future. 

In the end, while this package is tempting due to the talent and shooting it brings to the table, it’s still missing that final piece to truly convince the Lakers to part ways with LeBron. For the Kings, though, this might just be the type of gamble that puts them in serious contention for years to come.


San Antonio Spurs

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, 2025 Lottery-Protected First-Round Pick (SAS), 2027 First-Round Pick (SAS), 2027 First-Round Pick (ATL)

For the Spurs, this trade is a statement of intent to contend sooner than expected. Pairing LeBron James with Victor Wembanyama and a developing Jeremy Sochan would create an exciting and formidable trio, with LeBron’s leadership and championship experience accelerating the growth of the Spurs’ young core. 

However, while this deal gives San Antonio a path to compete, the Lakers might be reluctant to give up LeBron for assets that, while valuable, lack the immediate impact needed for another championship run. 

Devin Vassell is a dynamic two-way wing who could fit seamlessly into the Lakers’ rotation (16.6 PPG, 2.8 APG), while Keldon Johnson brings scoring and leadership (12.7 PPG, 5.3 RPG), though he still has room to develop. The multiple first-round picks—especially the 2027 ones—offer the Lakers a path toward a potential rebuild but might not be enough for Rob Pelinka to accept. 


Toronto Raptors

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Immanuel Quickley, Jakob Poeltl, 2025 First-Round Pick (TOR), 2027 First-Round Pick (TOR)

The Toronto Raptors’ trade offer for LeBron James is built around a solid mix of role players and future assets. Immanuel Quickley, a young guard with strong defensive skills and the ability to contribute offensively, would be a valuable piece for the Lakers’ backcourt (15.3 PPG, 4.0 APG). Jakob Poeltl, a solid center known for his rebounding, rim protection, and basketball IQ, is having a career year (15.9 PPG, 11.6 RPG) and would be a beast next to Anthony Davis. 

For the Raptors, this trade represents an effort to immediately elevate their playoff hopes by pairing LeBron with All-Star Scottie Barnes. LeBron’s leadership and championship pedigree could push the Raptors into serious contention in the East, with the possibility of forming a veteran-led trio that would be difficult to beat. 

However, the Lakers may feel this package lacks the superstar-level impact needed to justify parting with one of the greatest players of all time, especially considering Toronto’s assets, while valuable, aren’t likely to make an immediate splash in the title race. This trade offer has its merits, but it may fall short of what it would take to move LeBron.


Utah Jazz

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Collin Sexton, John Collins, 2025 First-Round Pick (MIN), 2025 First-Round Pick (CLE)

The Utah Jazz’s trade offer for LeBron James is a blend of young talent and future assets, but it likely wouldn’t be enough to sway the Lakers. Collin Sexton brings energy and scoring potential as a guard (16.8 PPG), but he hasn’t fully developed into a star-level player. 

John Collins is a solid forward who provides athleticism and scoring but has struggled with defensive consistency (18.0 PPG, 8.3 RPG), and his contract could be seen as a negative by the Lakers, who are aiming to win now. The 2025 first-round picks from Minnesota and Cleveland offer some future flexibility, but neither is guaranteed to be high lottery picks, which makes them less appealing in the short term.

For the Jazz, this trade would create an intriguing lineup with LeBron joining Lauri Markkanen, giving the team two star-level forwards who could make a deep playoff run. However, while the Jazz would immediately become more competitive, the Lakers may not be sold on this package. 


Washington Wizards

Trade Offer For LeBron James: Jordan Poole, Alex Sarr

The Washington Wizards’ offer for LeBron James, featuring Jordan Poole and Alex Sarr, is an interesting but ultimately underwhelming one for the Lakers. Jordan Poole has shown flashes of scoring potential (20.4 PPG, 5.0 APG), but his inconsistency and tendency to be a liability on defense make him a risky proposition for a team trying to compete for a championship. 

While Poole could provide scoring off the bench or potentially step into a starting role, he hasn’t yet proven he can be a reliable contributor on a winning team. Alex Sarr, a highly-touted prospect, brings intrigue with his upside, but he’s unproven at the NBA level so far in his rookie season posting 10.6 points and 6.3 rebounds per game.

For the Wizards, this trade is all about reloading for the future, giving them LeBron’s leadership and star power while building around Kyle Kuzma and Bilal Coulibaly. However, it’s hard to see how the Wizards could entice the Lakers with a deal that offers so little immediate return. 

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TAGGED:LeBron JamesLos Angeles Lakers Archive
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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, 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.
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