The 2024–25 NBA season has been a rollercoaster for several franchises, and as the offseason approaches, we expect bold moves to happen. The Los Angeles Lakers, despite a strong 50-32 regular-season record and a blockbuster midseason acquisition of Luka Doncic, faced a disappointing first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Meanwhile, the Miami Heat, finishing 10th in the Eastern Conference with a 37-45 record, are seeking a resurgence after a lackluster season that saw them move on from franchise star Jimmy Butler.
In this context, a massive three-team trade proposal emerges: the Lakers acquire a supertalented center and a proven wing to bolster their roster, while the Heat bring in dynamic point guard Ja Morant to rejuvenate their backcourt.
Morant, who averaged 23.2 points and 7.3 assists over 50 games this season, could provide the spark Miami desperately needs. The Memphis Grizzlies won’t want to move on from their core superstar player in a perfect situation, but Morant’s future has been up in the air following multiple seasons of inconsistency, and it might be time for all parties to move on.
Proposed Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers: Andrew Wiggins, Kel’el Ware
Miami Heat Receive: Ja Morant
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: Austin Reaves, Dorian Finney-Smith (Sign-and-Trade), 2025 First-Round Pick (GSW), 2031 First-Round Pick (MIA)
This potential trade could redefine the trajectories of all franchises as they each aim to return to playoff contention in the near future. Let’s go through what this trade could do for each team involved.
Lakers Add Two Strong Pieces Around Luka And LeBron
By parting with Austin Reaves and Dorian Finney-Smith (in a sign-and-trade), two players who we predicted could leave the team this summer, the Lakers can make a strategic move to enhance their championship aspirations. Reaves was the third option this season, but if the player rejects the expected offer from the Lakers to seek at least $200 million, he could be traded this summer.
Following a disappointing first-round playoff exit despite a 50–32 regular-season record, the Lakers are poised to retool their roster around stars Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Acquiring Andrew Wiggins and Kel’el Ware addresses critical needs.
Wiggins, who averaged 18.0 points per game with a 44.8% field goal percentage during the 2024–25 season, brings versatile defense and scoring ability to the wing position. His experience and athleticism complement Doncic’s playmaking and James’s leadership, especially when considering he had Finals MVP-worthy performances in the 2022 NBA Finals.
Kel’el Ware, a promising 21-year-old center, adds youth and athleticism to the Lakers’ frontcourt. In his rookie season, Ware posted 9.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game, shooting an efficient 55.4% from the field.
His presence addresses the Lakers’ need for a dynamic big man who can protect the rim and finish around the basket. No doubt, he would be an immediate upgrade over who the Lakers had competing at center this past season: Jaxson Hayes and Alex Len.
This trade allows the Lakers to balance their roster by adding a seasoned wing and an emerging center, providing Doncic and James with the support needed to contend in the competitive Western Conference.
Heat Create Another Big Three To Contend In The East
The Miami Heat, after a 37–45 season and missing the playoffs, are seeking a resurgence. Acquiring Ja Morant offers the opportunity to form a new Big Three alongside Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro.
One of the key targets for the Miami Heat, as seen in our previous article, Morant averaged 23.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game during the 2024–25 season. The superstar showcased his dynamic playmaking and scoring abilities, despite only playing 50 games and dealing with more controversy.
His explosive athleticism and leadership can revitalize the Heat’s offense and bring excitement back to Miami, and he could be the immediate superstar replacement for Jimmy Butler. While Morant’s tenure in Memphis included some off-court issues, a change of scenery and the Heat’s strong organizational culture could provide the structure he needs to thrive.
Miami’s history of maximizing player potential under head coach Erik Spoelstra bodes well for Morant’s integration. His addition positions the Heat to re-enter the Eastern Conference playoff picture and potentially contend for a title.
Grizzlies Kickstart Their Retool Around Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane
The Memphis Grizzlies, facing early playoff exits and internal challenges over the past few seasons, are poised to retool their roster around Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane. Trading Ja Morant for Austin Reaves, Dorian Finney-Smith (via sign-and-trade), and two first-round picks from Miami provides a fresh start.
Reaves, who averaged 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game in the 2024–25 season, brings versatility and scoring to the backcourt. His ability to play both guard positions complements Bane’s sharpshooting and Jackson’s interior presence.
Finney-Smith adds defensive prowess and three-point shooting to the Grizzlies’ wing rotation. In the 2024–25 season, he averaged 8.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and shot 41.1% from beyond the arc. His experience and versatility make him a valuable addition to Memphis’s young core. The inclusion of future first-round picks provides the Grizzlies with additional assets to continue building for the future.
This trade allows Memphis to move forward with a redefined identity, focusing on a cohesive and balanced roster. By acquiring players who fit their system and culture, the Grizzlies set the stage for sustained success in the Western Conference, even without head coach Taylor Jenkins, who was surprisingly fired at the end of the season.
