Latest news with #DanWoike
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
3 NBA Stars The Lakers Could Pair With Luka Doncic Amid LeBron James' Uncertain Future
3 NBA Stars The Lakers Could Pair With Luka Doncic Amid LeBron James' Uncertain Future originally appeared on Fadeaway World. The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves at a bit of a crossroads concerning their superstar pairing of LeBron James and Luka Doncic. While the addition of Doncic has ushered in a new era for the Purple and Gold, the uncertainty linked with James' future with the team demands more attention. Advertisement The trade saga involving James is at a stage where four teams have reportedly shown an interest in acquiring him. The likelihood of the forward leaving the franchise seems more realistic as the relationship between the organization and the player turns sour. The Athletic's Dan Woike shared some insight on this, stating that the cause of the rift could be the franchise's plans for the future. He wrote: "Much of the tension appears to stem from the Lakers' desire to keep their salary-cap sheet as clear as possible starting next summer, allowing them to find Luka Doncic's future partner either in free agency or via trade, when they'll have access to use first-round picks in 2026, 2031 and 2033 for a single trade." When considering the Lakers' intentions of letting go of Dorian Finney-Smith to clear cap space for the future, it is evident that these plans are in effect. With the Purple and Gold currently favoring Luka Doncic's timeline, they will look to surround him with the necessary talent to succeed. Advertisement In light of this, it is also possible that the team could target a star in the frontcourt as a priority, primarily to complement Doncic's playing style. After considering these factors, we explore 3 potential stars that the Lakers could pair with Doncic. Giannis Antetokounmpo Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesMandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Giannis Antetokounmpo is an interesting name to consider among the superstars in the league. Given the offseason drama surrounding him, Antetokounmpo would make for a solid target, but not necessarily via trade. The possibility of a trade was enticing earlier in the offseason, with several teams emerging as potential landing spots. But a recent statement by the Milwaukee Bucks president effectively rules out any such move at the moment. Advertisement This doesn't necessarily shut the door on acquiring Antetokounmpo. The Bucks' current roster isn't primed to win. In addition to this, the 30-year-old forward has a $58,456,566 player option for the 2027-28 season. This opens up the possibility of signing him in free agency, a period when the Lakers are also expected to have enough cap space to land a superstar. The notion of pairing Antetokounmpo with Doncic is truly intriguing. The Greek forward is one of the most dominant players in the league, having averaged 30.4 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game last season. With the burden of playmaking taken out of his hands, a one-two pairing of Doncic and Antetokounmpo would be extremely formidable. While there would be some immediate issues with adjustment, the eventual product could be worthy of contending for the title. The challenge in this scenario is the sheer number of variables at play. With many elements outside the Lakers' sphere of control, the Purple and Gold could struggle with completing such a deal. Karl-Anthony Towns May 16, 2025; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) reacts during the first quarter of game six in the second round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Boston Celtics at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images Another potential target for the Lakers in the summer of 2027 could be New York Knicks big man Karl-Anthony Towns. Advertisement Towns is coming off a solid season, which saw the Knicks reach their first ECF appearance in 25 years. Having averaged 24.4 points and 12.8 rebounds, the 29-year-old was exceptional on the offensive side of the ball. In light of New York's exit from the playoffs, Towns ended up shouldering a lot of the blame for the losses. His relatively low effort on defense was ruthlessly criticized and used as a reason for the Knicks' shortcomings. After the kind of season the big man had, this could be considered harsh. But in light of the large-scale changes happening in New York, it would not be a surprise if Towns were available on the trade market as of now. For the Lakers, a straight swap between James and Towns would currently be financially feasible. Otherwise, the big man also has a $55,110,496 player option for the 2027-28 season. If he, like Antetokounmpo, chooses to opt out and test free agency, the Purple and Gold would have enough purchasing power to try and sign him. Nikola Jokic Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) smiles after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Paycom Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images The inclusion of Nikola Jokic in this list could be considered outrageous, and rightfully so. But there is some merit in believing that the Purple and Gold could look to pair him with Doncic in the 2027 offseason. Advertisement Jokic reportedly declined a contract extension offer from the Nuggets. While this doesn't imply that he is actively looking to part ways with the franchise, it has certainly raised some concerns regarding his future with the team. As things stand, the Nuggets' big man has a $62,841,702 player option for the 2027-28 season. Although he may choose to opt in to it, there is a scenario in which he opts out and tests free agency. This would allow the Lakers to sign him. Last season, Jokic remained one of the best players in the league. Finishing second in the MVP race behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Serbian notched an unreal average of 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game. Considering how solid the chemistry between Jokic and Doncic already is, the Lakers could benefit from making this dream pairing a reality. However, the challenges in seeing this through to fruition make it highly unlikely for the Lakers to be able to complete it. Summarizing The Lakers' Prospects When considering the possibility of James being traded this season, the Lakers have several options to trade him in exchange for a superstar. However, if he is bought out or he plays on until he becomes a free agent, the Purple and Gold have fewer assets they can use in trade, thus forcing them to target the 2027 free agency class to acquire a superstar. Advertisement As things stand, the Lakers made a strong move by acquiring a big man like Deandre Ayton to pair with Doncic. With a reliable big man in the starting rotation, the Lakers can look to develop their wing depth. The Lakers need to understand the timelines that they are working with at this stage. Considering that most of the players on their roster are on expiring contracts, they will be able to clear up enough cap space for next season if no trades are made this year. This would allow them to target a player like Andrew Wiggins, who has a $30,169,644 player option for the 2026-27 season. Should he opt out of it, the Purple and Gold could look to sign him as well. Meanwhile, the emphasis on acquiring a big man in the 2027 offseason aligns with Ayton's contract coming to an end. In the event he becomes a significant contributor, the Purple and Gold may look to re-sign him, opening up the possibilities of using the remaining cap space to acquire a star in a different position. Advertisement Much of this still rests on Doncic's decision to sign a contract extension with the Lakers. Should the Slovenian star choose not to re-sign, the Purple and Gold may need to revisit their plans altogether. Related: Jovan Buha Explains How Lakers' Project 2027 Affects Luka Doncic This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 14, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Lakers Want To Keep Their Salary-Sheet Clean For 2026; Plan To Find Luka Doncic's Future Partner In Two Ways
Lakers Want To Keep Their Salary-Sheet Clean For 2026; Plan To Find Luka Doncic's Future Partner In Two Ways originally appeared on Fadeaway World. The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly committed to keeping their salary sheet clean for the summer of 2026, with a long-term plan that centers around finding Luka Doncic's future co-star. According to Dan Woike, the franchise is positioning itself to make a major move once it gains access to its 2026, 2031, and 2033 first-round picks. Advertisement "Much of the tension appears to stem from the Lakers' desire to keep their salary-cap sheet as clear as possible starting next summer, allowing them to find Luka Doncic's future partner either in free agency or via trade, when they'll have access to use first-round picks in 2026, 2031 and 2033 for a single trade." That timeline, however, is not sitting well with LeBron James. Despite opting into the final year of his $52.6 million deal, the relationship between LeBron and the Lakers has become strained, with reports suggesting that James feels disrespected by the team's decision to prioritize Doncic's long-term timeline over winning right now. At the heart of this tension lies a philosophical divide. LeBron, who will turn 41 during the 2025–26 season, wants to maximize what remains of his prime with a championship push. His agent, Rich Paul, made that clear when James chose to opt in. Paul's statement hinted at an understanding between both parties but also a need to 'evaluate what's best' for LeBron moving forward. For the Lakers, that 'best' apparently involves a future with Doncic as the franchise centerpiece, surrounded by younger stars, and potentially paired with another max-level talent acquired in 2026. Advertisement The Lakers' strategy revolves around flexibility. With no major long-term contracts outside of Doncic, who arrived via trade this offseason, the team wants to maintain cap space and draft capital for 2026, the first offseason where they can package three first-round picks in a single blockbuster deal. That could be used to acquire Doncic's co-star via trade, or to lure a free agent looking to join one of the game's premier young talents in Los Angeles. It's a smart long-term play, especially given the NBA's new collective bargaining agreement and its harsh luxury tax penalties. Still, for James, whose clock is ticking, this approach feels like a betrayal of their previous win-now ethos. James' frustrations are not just based on projections. Over the past 18 months, the cracks have been visible. ESPN reported that LeBron felt the organization's priorities had shifted away from him. Advertisement The front office's refusal to offer a contract extension this summer, combined with their tepid trade efforts, sent a clear message: the franchise is no longer willing to mortgage the future to appease its aging star. For a player who's been the Lakers' engine, face, and savior since 2018, that realization stings. The Las Vegas Summer League only added to the intrigue. LeBron arrived courtside with family, cheered on Bronny, and interacted with team staff, but the real story was what he didn't say. There were no public endorsements of the front office, no declarations about 'unfinished business,' and no signals that he's locked in beyond this season. While his presence appeared cordial, the undercurrent of tension remains very real. In the end, this may come down to irreconcilable timelines. The Lakers want to build for Doncic. LeBron wants to win now. And somewhere between the lines of loyalty, legacy, and long-term planning, the greatest player of this generation may quietly be preparing for his final exit from Los Angeles. Related: Luka Doncic Confirms He Loves Playing With LeBron James: "It's An Honor To Be His Teammate..." This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 14, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Lakers Insider Shuts Down Andrew Wiggins Trade Rumors
Lakers Insider Shuts Down Andrew Wiggins Trade Rumors originally appeared on Fadeaway World. Amid the rebuild around Luka Doncic, one of the key positions the Lakers have to fill in their roster this offseason is an athletic wing who can also defend well. A few days ago, rumors suggested the Lakers could be looking at the former NBA champion Andrew Wiggins to fill that role. Advertisement Subsequently, the Lakers' Insider for The Athletic, Dan Woike, appeared on the Zach Lowe Show and confirmed with certainty that the Lakers are out of any potential trade discussions for Wiggins. Lowe: '…. the Lakers have, I guess, sniffed around Wiggins. I didn't really understand any of those trade rumors.' Woike: 'They're not, they're not interested in Andrew Wiggins. I think I can put that to bed. I'm pretty confident in that. Let's pretend they have.' Lowe: 'I didn't get. I've already said on my podcast that I didn't understand what those rumors like they were suddenly giving up like a lot of sh** for Andrew Wiggins. It's like, isn't Rui Hachimura just as good as Andrew Wiggins? Like, why am I adding a lot more to that? I like Hachimura.' Advertisement Earlier this offseason, it was reported that the Heat had made their demands clear on what they expect the Lakers to give up in a trade that brought Andrew Wiggins to LA. According to Lakers insider Jovan Buha, the Heat has set a steep asking price for Wiggins. The Heat are reportedly demanding Dalton Knecht, Rui Hachimura, and a future first-round pick in exchange for the 30-year-old Canadian forward. Wiggins was traded to the Heat in a February move that sent Jimmy Butler to the Warriors. In the 60 games he played this season, he averaged 18.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists, while shooting 44.8% from the field and 37.4% from beyond the three-point line. While Wiggins is a potentially strong fit alongside Luka Doncic, Woike has confirmed that the rumors are baseless and we should not expect to see the Lakers make any moves for Wiggins. They had only reportedly inquired about him, but never intended to make an offer once the asking price was revealed. Advertisement The Lakers are looking for an athletic wing to replace the role that Dorian Finney-Smith played on their roster this season, or what P.J. Washington did for the Mavericks in their 2024 NBA Finals run. The Lakers will potentially follow the same blueprint that the Mavericks did to build a roster around Doncic, but one of the biggest issues in doing that in the coming season itself is LeBron James. James picked up a $52.6 million player option this summer, which represents 34.66% of the Lakers' total salary cap space. According to Trevor Lane, who states Dan Woike as his source, the Lakers will not look to take on any long-term contracts in a potential trade for James as they look to free up cap space for 2026-27. This puts teams like the Clippers and Heat in a unique position to make lucrative offers to the Lakers as they have the necessary expiring contracts to make an offer worth the Lakers' consideration keeping their demands in mind. While no trades have yet been discussed for either Wiggins or James, I can see a future where there is a possibility that the Heat and Lakers come up with a trade package that brings Wiggins to LA and potentially reunites James with the Heat. If the Heat are willing to take the albatross of LeBron James from around the Lakers' neck, then they may consider making the move for Wiggins. Related: 2 Trade Deals Between Lakers And Heat That Could Perfectly Work For Both Teams This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 15, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Lakers' Return in Historic Kevin Durant 7-Team Trade Revealed
Lakers' Return in Historic Kevin Durant 7-Team Trade Revealed originally appeared on Athlon Sports. In what was the biggest move of the summer, the Phoenix Suns traded two-time NBA Finals MVP Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets. Advertisement While it's viewed as a done trade, it isn't technically official until July 6, which is when the new league year begins. As the days have passed, it has been revealed that five other teams were involved in making the trade possible. The other teams that helped facilitate the move are the Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Golden State Warriors and the Los Angeles Lakers. While this will go down as a historical trade because it featured a record seven teams, no other star players will land on the other teams involved. According to NBA insider Dan Woike, this move is primarily centered on salary cap considerations. In terms of what the Lakers received for being part of this trade, Woike confirmed that their contribution was making a move in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft to select Arkansas' Adou Thiero. Advertisement "Sounds like the Lakers involvement in the NBA mega-trade is their draft night move to go get Adou Thiero so you shouldn't expect any compensation to be headed their way," wrote Woike. The Los Angeles Lakers were reportedly part of the 7-team trade that centered around Kevin Durant. Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images As confirmed by the Los Angeles Times, to select the former Arkansas and Kentucky standout, the Lakers traded pick No. 55 and $2.5 million in cash to the Chicago Bulls for pick No. 45. The Lakers then sent the No. 45 pick and cash considerations to the Timberwolves, giving them the rights to Thiero, who was originally picked by the Brooklyn Nets. While this may not be the blockbuster addition Lakers fans have been calling for, Thiero is a hyper-athletic and lengthy forward that should vie for early minutes. Advertisement Related: Bronny James Breaks Silence on the Change in His Physical Appearance Related: Nuggets Dealt Devastating Trade News on Thursday This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 3, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
01-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
New Report on Deandre Ayton, Lakers After Buyout
New Report on Deandre Ayton, Lakers After Buyout originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Portland Trail Blazers certainly shocked everyone when ESPN's Shams Charania reported that they were finalizing a buyout with former No. 1 pick Deandre Ayton. Players who are as young as Ayton and get paid as much as he does don't typically get bought out. Advertisement Ever since it was reported, it's been highly speculated that the Lakers would go after him once he clears waivers. After trading Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles lacked a sturdy center in the postseason, which factored into their elimination. Ayton is coming off a season where he averaged 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds while shooting 56.6% from the field. He also has extensive playoff experience, as he was the Phoenix Suns' starting center during the 2021 NBA Finals run. As it turns out, the Lakers-Ayton buzz is more than mere speculation. The Athletic's Dan Woike confirmed that Ayton is among the centers Los Angeles is interested in bringing to the team. "Armed with the $14.1 million mid-level exception, the Lakers are expected to chase Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez and the Atlanta Hawks' Clint Capela, with the surprise addition of Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton as another target on their list," Woike wrote. Advertisement Besides the Lakers' need for a center, there are more connections here than meet the eye. Not only did Ayton and Luka Doncic come from the same draft - Ayton was picked two spots ahead of Doncic in 2018 - but they both share the same agent, Bill Duffy. Related: New Report on LeBron James to Mavericks Trade Possibility Related: New Report Emerges on Possible LeBron James, Anthony Davis Reunion This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 30, 2025, where it first appeared.
