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25 minutes ago
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Lakers part ways with LeBron for star guard, 39% 3-point shooter in this wild trade
Is LeBron James going to request a trade out of Los Angeles? The Lakers are certainly not committed to building around LeBron anymore. Nobody would blame either side if they decided that parting ways was best for both sides. That's why everyone has been keeping their ear to the ground for LeBron trade rumors. One LeBron trade was proposed by Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report. He created '3 Trade Packages To Bring LeBron James Home to Cleveland Cavaliers,' and this one could be worth considering. 'Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: F LeBron James, G Bronny James, 2027 first-round pick (top-2 protected from Dallas Mavericks, via Hornets) and save $27.4 million Los Angeles Lakers Receive: PG Darius Garland, G/F Max Strus Charlotte Hornets Receive: C Jarrett Allen Brooklyn Nets Receive: F Grant Williams, F Dean Wade, 2027 first-round pick (lottery-protected from Miami Heat, via Hornets)' This trade could work out for everyone. LeBron would head home and instantly make the Cavaliers even more favored to win the Eastern Conference. He would also get to bring his son along with him. The Lakers would receive Darius Garland and Max Strus in return for giving up their second-best player. It might still be worth it. Garland is a budding young star, and Strus is the perfect Lakers role player. Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp This LeBron-Cavaliers trade has the potential to make everyone happy. The Cavaliers would probably be the ones to hold this up as giving up Garland, Allen, Strus, and Dean Wade would probably be too rich for their blood. More NBA: LeBron James trade idea to Cavs involves 2x All-Star, role players to Lakers
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13-07-2025
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LeBron James Trade Watch: 20 Best Deals The Lakers Would Immediately Accept
LeBron James Trade Watch: 20 Best Deals The Lakers Would Immediately Accept originally appeared on Fadeaway World. The NBA world might experience some more major moves: the Lakers, in a headline-stealing blockbuster, shipped Anthony Davis to Dallas and welcomed Luka Doncic, instantly shifting the franchise's future. Now, rumors are swirling that this isn't the end of LA's makeover. Advertisement Whispers suggest LeBron James might be contemplating his exit, as the front office zeroes in on a Doncic-first future amid a very interesting offseason. And yet, through it all, LeBron remains center stage of every rumor, every hot take, every 'will-he/won't-he' story. But while everyone's talking Luka, LeBron's casting a long shadow, his leadership, legacy, and handshake-tight no-trade clause (which he reminded the world about with a mic-dropping reply: 'If I had concerns… I'd waive my no-trade clause and get up out of here') make him tougher to swap than you might think. So here we go: the definitive ranking of the 20 trade packages the Lakers should consider if they're serious about pivoting to the Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves era, and maybe, just maybe, if they're quietly preparing for life without LeBron. Strap in. 1. Cleveland Cavaliers Proposed Trade Details Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Darius Garland, Max Strus, 2031 first-round pick (CLE) LeBron James ending his career where it all started would be the best way to complete the fairytale, but the Cavaliers might also have the best player to be traded in a deal for The King. Swapping LeBron for Darius Garland is less about a consolation prize and more about injecting elite youth into L.A. Advertisement Garland averaged 20.6 PPG and 6.7 APG on 47.2/40.1/87.8 splits in 75 games this past season, the only Eastern Conference player combining 20+ points, 6+ assists, and 40% 3-point shooting. He's a rising All-Star who can lead the Luka-driven charge, light the skies with deep balls, and keep defenses honest. Max Strus is another interesting X‑factor. With Cleveland, Strus brought around 9.4 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.2 APG in 2024, and shone in the playoffs (18/9/5 in Game 3 vs. Miami), proving he's more than just a 3-point shooter. He adds much-needed versatility and defensive IQ, a perfect blend to complement Luka and Garland. This deal dares to dream big: a young backcourt of Doncic + Garland with sharpshooting depth from Strus, and future assets. It's bold, it's fresh, and it respects the rebuild without losing competitiveness. Maybe it's even too good to pass up. 2. New York Knicks Proposed Trade Details New York Knicks Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, Mitchell Robinson, 2025 Second-Round Pick (BOS or MEM), 2026 Second-Round Pick (BOS or WAS swap rights) LeBron James in Madison Square Garden alongside Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns would also be groundbreaking news. The King belongs in a big market, but the Lakers would only send him to the Knicks if it means bringing back three starting-caliber players. Advertisement Mikal Bridges is the LeBron replacement you actually want: tough, 6'7" length, and sterile on both ends. In '24-'25, he delivered 17.6 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 3.7 APG while locking down perimeter threats. He'd thrive patrolling wings alongside Doncic's gravity, enforcing, spacing, and flat-out winning. Josh Hart (13.6 PPG, 9.6 RPG) brings elite hustle and defensive bite, exactly what a high-IQ defense needs. Mitchell Robinson anchors inside with elite rim protection (1.1 BPG) and makes up with boardhouse presence. Together, they give LA immediate toughness, a toughness that's essential in the West grind. This isn't just a retool, it's a cultural reset, since we won't sleep on those swapped rights picks; frontloaded value to boot. 3. Golden State Warriors Proposed Trade Details Golden State Warriors Receive: LeBron James, Adou Thiero Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Jonathan Kuminga (Sign-and-Trade), Brandin Podziemski, Buddy Hield, Moses Moody, 2028 first-round pick Other than the Cavs and Knicks, LeBron being a part of the Golden State Warriors would be so massive that it would change the entire season. LeBron with Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green would scream superteam status once again. What would the Lakers ask for if they don't want an aging veteran? Jonathan Kuminga and three other players. Advertisement Jonathan Kuminga has shown flashes of brilliance. In '24-25, he put up 15.3 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.2 APG on 45.4% shooting, showing he can shine when the lights get bright. Pairing him with Doncic and Austin Reaves could spark a dangerous two-way punch. Brandin Podziemski (11.7 PPG, 5.1 RPG) & Buddy Hield (11.1 PPG) mean instant spacing. Hield remains one of the more reliable catch-and-shoot guards in the game; Moody is 23, high-upside, lightning-quick with averages of 9.8 PPG and 2.6 RPG last season. This quartet represents both present floor spacing and future value, anchored by a 2028 first-rounder to sweeten the shot. Sure, the price is steep, but so is the reward. You're swapping for future stars, shooting, and still planting a flag in the draft. And let's be honest, who doesn't want a Luka–Kuminga sidekick story? It's Hollywood-ready. 4. Denver Nuggets Potential Trade Details Denver Nuggets Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Aaron Gordon, Cam Johnson, Zeke Nnaji, 2028 first-round pick swap The Denver Nuggets will want to acquire LeBron James at all costs, because Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray having a dominant third star would be game over for the West. The Lakers will have no problem accepting the Nuggets' deal to bolster their thin frontcourt. Advertisement Aaron Gordon brings a gritty, do-everything attitude. In 2024-25, he averaged 14.7 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 3.2 APG, all on a smooth .531/.810 shooting slash line. He's that glue guy who crashes boards, defends multiple positions, and can burn one from deep. With Luka's scoring gravity, Gordon could thrive as the Swiss Army knife. Cam Johnson, recently acquired and only available for a trade after the recently traded restriction passes, posted 18.8 PPG, 39% from deep, adding 4.3 RPG on 2.8 treys per game. He spaces the floor like a dream, giving Luka the room to operate and preventing defenses from pinning down the penetrator-in-chief. Zeke Nnaji may have only played 10.7 MPG on average, but he flashed promise, scoring where it counts, hitting 49.6% FG, even sinking 32.7% of his limited 3s. Toss in a 2028 pick swap, and you've got a mix of now, soon, and later. Smart, solid, and spicy. 5. Boston Celtics Proposed Trade Details Boston Celtics Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Derrick White, Anfernee Simons, Baylor Scheierman, 2032 second-round pick Derrick White is everything you want if you are the Lakers: a lockdown defender and a consistent knock-down threat. He averaged 16.4 PPG, 4.8 APG, 4.5 RPG, shooting a reliable 44.2% FG and 38.4% from deep. He's the heady veteran who could shore up perimeter D around a young core. Advertisement Anfernee Simons is the anti-LeBron in energy and volume. He rolled out 19.3 PPG, 4.8 APG, with serious deep ball pop. He'd pressure defenses, liven up the bench, and give LA a ball-handler who plays with reckless freedom. Baylor Scheierman turned heads, dropping 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists in his first start. He's a developmental project with two-way potential and a dirt-cheap salary. Sweetener, spark, and some Celtics swagger. The Celtics would obviously snatch one of the all-time greats from their rivals, and a potential Big Three with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown would be incredible to watch. Would the Lakers and Celtics ever do business? Considering what we have seen from NBA teams last season, anything is possible. 6. Toronto Raptors Potential Trade Details Toronto Raptors Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Immanuel Quickley, Jakob Poeltl, 2025 first-round pick (TOR), 2027 first-round pick (TOR) The Raptors took a gamble by acquiring Kawhi Leonard to win a championship, and they could do the same with LeBron to pair him with Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram. The Lakers could ask for two pieces: a shooter and a big man. Advertisement Immanuel Quickley averaged about 17.1 PPG in only 33 games, stirring games with speed and step-back triples. He brings instant juice to a Luka-led offense, a turbo-dunk in short bursts with serious scoring flash. Jakob Poeltl is a 7'1' anchor, elite rim protector (1.2 BPG) and hardwood bruiser (9.6 RPG). He'd lock down the paint since we don't expect Deandre Ayton to put much of an effort defensively, giving this retooled LA defense a backbone. Two first-round picks from Toronto? That's roadmap material. One arrives in '25, the next in '27. It's nuts: youth, interior defense, draft capital, and leans fully into the Luka reset. Bold and bankable. 7. San Antonio Spurs Potential Trade Details San Antonio Spurs Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, 2027 first-round pick (SAS), 2027 first-round pick (ATL) If we see LeBron James paired up with Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox, the Western Conference would be placed on notice. For the Lakers, they would require two young talents and two picks from the Spurs to make this happen. Advertisement Devin Vassell posted a sophomore-esque progression in 2024-25, averaging 16.3 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 2.9 APG, shooting 44.3% from the floor and 36.8% from deep over 64 games. At just 24, he's a multi-tool wing who fits seamlessly alongside Luka, spacing the floor, cutting hard, and is capable of handling the ball. Keldon Johnson averaged 12.7 PPG, 4.8 RPG, and shot 48.2% from the field in 77 games last season. He was responsible for providing offense off the bench, proving he can deliver instant heat in bursts, a gritty, energetic glue piece who brings toughness and underscores in the same breath. He's exactly the kind of secondary scorer a Luka-Reaves core would need. This package gives L.A. two ascending players still on reasonable contracts, packing both now-value and future upside. Toss in dual picks too, and the trade becomes a strategic play for depth, youth, and long-term flexibility. The tone: pragmatic, smart, this feels like a realistic pivot move if LA wants to reload rather than reset. 8. Minnesota Timberwolves Potential Trade Details Minnesota Timberwolves Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, Mike Conley, 2026 second-round pick (UTA), 2029 second-round pick (MIN) The Minnesota Timberwolves might have been going after Kevin Durant, but since he went to Houston, LeBron James could be the next-best veteran to pair with Anthony Edwards. Of course, it will be pricey. Advertisement Julius Randle was a force in 2024-25, slashing 18.7 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 4.7 APG while shooting a hefty 48.5% from the floor over 69 games. He's the kind of bully-forward who can relieve Luka of heavy lifting inside and offer mentorship plus toughness. And he just re-upped on a three-year, $100M deal, meaning you lock in a core stabilizer. Donte DiVincenzo brought 11.7 PPG, 3.6 APG, and shot 39.7% from deep in 25.9 MPG, a perfect spot-up shooter for Luka and Reaves. Mike Conley is close to retirement, but he can be the perfect backup point guard for the Lakers. Both guys bring hustle, spacing, and perimeter defense without needing the ball. This is a veteran-laden, win-now haul with floorspace, leadership, and future bench heat. Three draftables sweeten the deal, making it feel like smart roster engineering. It's not flashy, but real. 9. Phoenix Suns Potential Trade Details Phoenix Suns Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Jalen Green, Grayson Allen The newly-acquired Jalen Green could be dangled in trade discussions for The King after the recently-traded restriction clears, because the Suns already have Devin Booker and Bradley Beal on the roster. Green erupted in the regular season, dropping 21.5 PPG on 46% shooting, including high-volume threes. He's a young, rocket-armed shot-maker who can create off the bounce and catch fire quickly; it'd be a bold sidekick for Luka. Advertisement Grayson Allen chipped in 12.3 PPG, knocking down 39% from deep, all while locking in defensively. He'd win trust from coaches with his off-ball cuts, screens, and hustle, plus bring locker-room swagger. This is high-risk, high-reward: pure youth with scoring upside and minimal support around them. If Green hits, it's dynamic; if not, it's a swing-and-miss. But Luka might just spark it. 10. Sacramento Kings Potential Trade Details Sacramento Kings Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: DeMar DeRozan, Malik Monk, Dario Saric, 2029 first-round pick (SAC) DeMar DeRozan continues to defy age with a polished 2024-25 season with the Sacramento Kings, 22.2 PPG, 4.4 APG, 3.9 RPG on 47.7% shooting in 77 starts. The 35-year-old is one of the league's deadliest midrange scorers and still carves defenses up with crafty footwork and a knack for drawing fouls. Plugged into a Luka-led engine, DeRozan doesn't need the ball 90% of the time but will dominate when needed, great for playoff balance. Advertisement Malik Monk averaged 17.2 PPG, 5.6 APG, 3.8 RPG across 65 games, showcasing evolution as a high-volume scorer and secondary playmaker. He shoots 32.5% from three and plays with burner pace, ideal for closing quarters or igniting a cold bench. Monk's breakout in January, 27 points and 12 assists in one fantasy highlight night, reveals his ceiling as more than just a shooter. Dario Saric might not light up the box score, but he's a versatile 3-and-D stretch four who brings spacing and savvy on the second unit. Toss in a 2029 first-rounder, Lakers reset timelines without mortgaging the present. This deal strikes as smart surgery: veteran scoring, bench firepower, and asset stockpiling. It'd feel like Luka gets serious room to operate, while LA retains control of its destiny. 11. New Orleans Pelicans Potential Trade Details New Orleans Pelicans Receive: LeBron James, Adou Thiero Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Dejounte Murray, Saddiq Bey, Jordan Hawkins The New Orleans Pelicans might want a mentor for Zion Williamson and Herb Jones, and LeBron James is that man. Even Jeremiah Fears could benefit from playing behind one of the NBA's greatest passers. For the Lakers, this is their time to re-tool. Advertisement Dejounte Murray brings lockdown defense and dynamic playmaking, following up his 2024 All-Defensive First Team selection with 17.5 PPG, 7.4 APG, 2.0 SPG in 31 games due to a major issue. When healthy, Murray can initiate the offense, hounding perimeter threats, and spark transition, everything a Luka-centric system covets. Saddiq Bey knocks down a 35.2% from three over his career so far, averaging 14.1 PPG while wearing a Swiss-army-knife hat; able to switch across positions and hit threes consistently. He brings length, pick-and-pop spacing, and athletic upside in a clean role around the offense. Jordan Hawkins impressed in 23.6 minutes per game, flashing shooting mechanics and gravity off the bench, posting 10.8 PPG He's a waiting weapon with upside, ideal for a development-heavy squad still chasing contention. No picks here, but the talent-to-fitting rate is high. 12. Orlando Magic Potential Trade Details Orlando Magic Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Jalen Suggs, Jonathan Isaac, Tristan da Silva, 2032 second-round pick The Orlando Magic acquired Desmond Bane in a huge package, but adding The King could take them over the top. The Lakers, meanwhile, wouldn't mind some fresh, young faces. Advertisement Jalen Suggs, still only 24, averaged 16.2 PPG, 3.7 APG, 4.0 RPG on 31.4% 3PT. He's a high-motor guard who can break down defenses, guard multiple positions, and offer that raw energy swing-lineups need. Jonathan Isaac, once lost to injuries, showed glimmers of his former two-way prowess this season. He averaged 5.4 PPG, 4.4 RPG, and swatted 1.1 blocks in just 15.4 MPG. If health holds, he's a floor-spacing, rim-protecting forward built for mid-to-long-term fit. Tristan da Silva is a 24-year-old forward with size and shot development, watching quietly. The 2032 second-rounder is a small cost for unlocking long-term upside. This deal is about intriguing upside and future runway. 13. Atlanta Hawks Potential Trade Details Atlanta Hawks Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Jalen Johnson, Luke Kennard, Kobe Bufkin, 2029 first-round pick (ATL) Jalen Johnson, only 23, averaged 18.9 PPG, 10.0 RPG, with flashes of defensive versatility in 35.7 minutes per game for the Atlanta Hawks. He's a high-effort glue piece who provides length and hustle, fitting Luka's need for gritty teammates. Advertisement Luke Kennard delivered 8.9 PPG on 43.3% 3PT shooting, offering reliable floor spacing off the bench. He's an outside sniper tailor-made for catch-and-go opportunities next to elite playmaking. Kobe Bufkin is a young guard with upside as a combo floor-handler, weakly used, but worth a look in training camp. The real kicker is a 2029 first-rounder, an asset that could flip or be used to move for a veteran on another swing. 14. Dallas Mavericks Potential Trade Details Dallas Mavericks Receive: LeBron James, Adou Thiero Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Klay Thompson, P.J. Washington, Daniel Gafford, Caleb Martin, 2032 second-round pick (DAL) LeBron James, alongside Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, and Cooper Flagg with the Mavericks, would be the biggest news in the NBA for the entire season, and we are ready for it. The package sent to the Lakers isn't the greatest, but it isn't the worst either. Especially when Luka gets to reunite with two teammates who helped him make the Finals in 2023-24. Advertisement Klay Thompson declined, but didn't vanish, in Dallas, averaging 14.0 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 2.0 APG, with a respectable 39.1% from deep across 72 games. Still one of the most reliable off-ball shooters in NBA history, he instantly boosts LA's perimeter gravity, giving Luka even more lanes and opening up the floor for everyone else. P.J. Washington brought 14.7 PPG, 7.8 RPG, and 2.3 APG, shooting 45.3% from the field and 38.1% from three. He's a Swiss-army PF, can stretch the floor, rebound hard, and pass out of double-teams. Daniel Gafford is a paint monster, posting 12.3 PPG on an ultra-efficient 70.2% FG with 6.8 RPG. He's the rim-runner and dunker who thrives in high-efficiency stints. This trade gives L.A. a finals-tested sniper, a stretch-inline forward, a glass-crashing big, and a gritty role-plug (Martin), plus that future asset. It's a combo of immediate spacing, finishing, and toughness, built explicitly to complement a Luka-centric scheme. Out of all the deals, we definitely want this one to happen. 15. Philadelphia 76ers Potential Trade Details Philadelphia 76ers Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Paul George, 2030 first-round pick Paul George had a tough season with the 76ers, but he can still contribute when he is healthy and motivated. In 2024-25, he dropped 16.2 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4.3 APG, with 35.8% from deep, clearly down numbers. However, if he can regain his All-Star form, he's the shutdown scorer who can guard positions 1-4 and create late-game shots, a high-class boost next to Luka. Advertisement In the best world, George's isolation scoring and elite athleticism free Luka from double-teams. He's a proven co-star, able to initiate, cut, or shoot, exactly the kind of fit that screams championship retool. We predict that PG13 will feel happy to be back in Los Angeles and get back to his best. You pay top-dollar with a first-round pick, but in return, you get a defined closer, two-way impact, and veteran leadership. It's the kind of deal where L.A. stops chasing youth and goes all-in on the now, with Luka and PG carving a big-name tandem. 16. Miami Heat Potential Trade Details Miami Heat Receive LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Terry Rozier, Nikola Jovic, 2030 first-round pick, 2032 second-round pick The Miami Heat will certainly be interested in a reunion to form a Big Three with Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo. For the Lakers, the package is simple. Advertisement Andrew Wiggins in 2024-25 averaged 18.0 PPG, 4.5 RPG, and nailed 37.4% from deep. He's known for lockdown D, flexibility across matchups, and now hits triples with confidence. He'd easily slip into LA's rotational wings as a steady two-way piece. Terry Rozier dropped 10.6 PPG, 2.6 APG, and shot 39.1% in a down season. However, he's a high-energy ball-handler who can change pace, break defenses off the dribble, and act as Luka's primary backup, a win for system balance. Nikola Jovic is a 22-year-old Euro forward with scoring instincts and upside to develop after posting 10.7 points and 3.9 rebounds per game last season. Add in first- and second-round draft capital, and you have versatility now with runway for later. It's a balanced haul with depth, buy-in, and optionality, not a pure gamble. 17. Brooklyn Nets Potential Trade Details Brooklyn Nets Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Michael Porter Jr., Terance Mann, 2031 first-round pick (BKN) Michael Porter Jr. delivered a stellar 2024-25: 18.2 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 2.1 APG, 50.4% FG, 39.5% 3PT, while averaging 33.7 MPG across 77 games. Even if he was just acquired by the Nets, he could be moved after the 90-day window. In a Luka-plus-stretcher setup, MPJ could torch mismatches and keep defenses honest. Advertisement Terance Mann posted around 7.7 PPG, 3.0 RPG, and played with defensive tenacity. He'd bring championship-mindfulness from the Clippers days, a defense-first mindset, smart rotations, and secondary playmaking. He's the kind of role piece that can smooth rotations around stars without demanding shot volume. This one is flashy: swap a former MVP (LeBron) for a younger scoring combo-plus-future pick. MPJ's efficiency paints a picture of a modern stretch-four; Mann adds grit, and that 2031 lottery asset adds optionality. It's a case of 'maybe too much, maybe just enough.' 18. Charlotte Hornets Potential Trade Details Charlotte Hornets Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Miles Bridges, Josh Green, Grant Williams, 2026 first-round pick (CHA), 2027 First-Round Pick (DAL) Miles Bridges, back from adversity, looked re-energized in 2024-25 for the Charlotte Hornets, averaging 20.3 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 3.9 APG, and showing flashes of two-way dominance before injury halted him mid-season. He's still just 27 and possesses explosive athleticism, drive, and bounce off the bounce, a perfect Luka complement if healthy. Advertisement Josh Green's line of 7.4 PPG, 2.5 RPG showcases a developing two-way wing role. He's a glue guy-in-waiting, with defenders' potential and room to grow in confidence and shot-making. Grant Williams brings 10.4 PPG on 36.5% 3PT and group defense chops. The addition of two first-rounders (2026 and 2027) is a draft-stock jackpot. Health risk with upside? Yes. Reward? A dynamic trio of athletic wing talent plus future capital could reshape the rotation long-term. 19. Oklahoma City Thunder Potential Trade Details Oklahoma City Thunder Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Isaiah Hartenstein, Luguentz Dort, Cason Wallace, 2029 first-round pick, 2031 first-round pick Isaiah Hartenstein scored 11.2 PPG, 10.7 RPG, shooting .581 FG, adding paint presence and rim deterrence. He's a defensive anchor, a backbone in a league where bigs still matter, giving modern spacing balance next to Luka. Advertisement Luguentz Dort anchored the Thunder's top-tier defense, averaging 10.1 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.6 APG, 41.2% 3PT, with All-Defensive First Team credentials. He's exactly the kind of gritty wing who defends and disrupts, giving heft to perimeter rotations. Cason Wallace is a legit young stopper, averaging 8.4 PPG and 1.8 steals per game with a stout campaign. The two 1st-round picks ('29, '31) effectively throw icing on this defensively minded haul. If LA wants to lock in toughness, inside and out, this deal nails it. 20. Detroit Pistons Potential Trade Details Detroit Pistons Receive: LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Tobias Harris, Isaiah Stewart, Ron Holland, 2027 First-Round Pick (DET), 2031 First-Round Pick (DET) Tobias Harris averaged 13.7 PPG, 5.9 RPG, shooting 47.7% FG and 34.5% from deep. His scoring is steady, his experience deepens the rotation, and he's a secondary creator who fits around Luka without disrupting flow. Isaiah Stewart is a rebound-hungry defender, averaging 6.0 RPG, 5.5 PPG, 1.4 blocks over 19.9 minutes per game. He brings hustle, paint protection, and physicality, plus positional flexibility for a roster absent of centers besides Deandre Ayton. Ron Holland, a 2024 first-rounder, flashed two-way upside overseas, long, athletic, and defensively switchable. Coupled with the Pistons' two draft picks, this package feels like a youth-plus-pick play, low-cost and reasonable. Related: Shams Charania Says Lakers And LeBron James May Part Ways Within Two Months This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
02-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
NBA rumors: Bill Simmons floats intriguing Darius Garland trade to Nets
The post NBA rumors: Bill Simmons floats intriguing Darius Garland trade to Nets appeared first on ClutchPoints. After earning the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, the Cleveland Cavaliers were stunningly eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the NBA playoffs, leaving the team's fans and analysts wondering if the 2025 offseason could be one of change. In particular, could Darius Garland be on the move? Advertisement Popular NBA podcaster Bill Simmons certainly thinks so. Simmons, on the latest episode of his podcast, suggested Garland could be traded by the Cavaliers this offseason. To whom is unclear, but he thinks a potential deal with the Brooklyn Nets could make sense for both sides. 'I feel like Garland is going to be in play, and I think a lot of people in the league feel this way. And now in the last week, there's been some media people and there's been some buzz about it. There's a couple pieces to this, which is Cleveland, the second apron, the tax. They have some real money stuff,' Simmons said. 'So if they trade Garland, they have to go down a little bit. I was looking at Brooklyn for him, and that's going to be my 'I wouldn't be surprised if' team. With Brooklyn, if it was Garland and Okoro, Cam Johnson coming back to the Cavs with the number-seven pick and some other asset, because I think he's worth more than that. But there's something there. And if you're Brooklyn, you're like, we finally have our guy. This is one of the best 25 guys in the league. He's young, he's gonna be [on] his own team, he could be our Haliburton, we're going to build an entire roster around everything that he's good at.' The Nets, after shipping out veteran players Dennis Schroder and Dorian Finney-Smith, don't have much else other than Johnson that could entice a team trying to compete for a championship like the Cavaliers. However, Cleveland could theoretically make a trade for Johnson in order to get under the second apron, opening up other trades in the process. Advertisement A potential wrench in the plans of a Darius Garland trade may be his health; the All-Star guard struggled with a toe injury during the playoffs, and earlier today, he underwent surgery and will be rehabbing for the next four to five months. The Cavaliers say Garland is expected to be ready for the start of training camp, but ESPN's Shams Charania and Brian Windhorst reported that he 'is likely to miss time to start the regular season.' Related: Hornets' 10 worst NBA Draft day mistakes in history Related: NBA rumors: Hawks join Pistons as Myles Turner free agency suitor
Yahoo
02-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
NBA rumors: Bill Simmons already has a Lakers-Cavs-Jazz LeBron James trade idea
The post NBA rumors: Bill Simmons already has a Lakers-Cavs-Jazz LeBron James trade idea appeared first on ClutchPoints. As is true with any major LeBron James move, his decision to opt in for the final year of his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers has sent teams into a frenzy. Instead of becoming a free agent, James exercised a $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season. Advertisement This may be James' way of monitoring what moves the Lakers make and whether the team is capable of contending for a championship in the near future. However, The Ringer's Bill Simmons already has a trade idea that sees James and Bronny leave to Cleveland in a three-team trade that also involves the Utah Jazz. 'Does he have a trade veto?' Simmons joked, when asked about the possibility of Bronny not wanting to go to Cleveland. 'Utah gets Darius Garland and Rui Hachimura, the Lakers get Kessler, Lonzo Ball, Jordan Clarkson, and John Collins. Utah has to throw a pick or two, has to sprinkle some picks around, because ultimately they are getting Darius Garland,' Simmons continued. The Cavs have been said to be open to listening to offers for Darius Garland, and a potential reunion with LeBron will surely tempt them. Garland earned All-Star honors, averaging 20.6 points and 6.7 assists per game last season. Should Lakers cash in on LeBron (and Bronny)? While Simmons does not believe the Cavs should trade Garland, he suggested it may be in the Lakers' best interest to get assets for LeBron. Advertisement 'On the record, I don't think Cleveland should trade Darius Garland, But I'm just saying, I wonder if those type of deals are being talked about. The whole reason I am talking about this, I think this is going to be really hard now that he has opted in, for any other option, monitoring it,' Simmons said. Simmons claimed that now that LeBron has opted in, the Lakers are left with few assets to get a starting center. Further, considering LeBron may be looking to 'monitor progress' over the next season before making his decision over a new contract, focusing on building around Luka Doncic makes more short and long-term sense. Whichever way this goes, LeBron's decision to opt in will undoubtedly force the Lakers to make big decisions. Should they continue hoping to land a championship with the LeBron-Luka duo, especially now, when they may struggle to get a starting center this offseason? Rob Pelinka and co. might instead be better served building a winning team around Doncic. Related: NBA rumors: Suns center linked to Knicks, Lakers in trade talks Related: NBA rumors: Why Blazers failed to find Deandre Ayton trade before buyout
Yahoo
02-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Donovan Mitchell reflects on his evolution with the Cavs as one of the veterans: "I took a step for others to continue to grow"
Donovan Mitchell reflects on his evolution with the Cavs as one of the veterans: "I took a step for others to continue to grow" originally appeared on Basketball Network. Throughout his career, Donovan Mitchell was known to do everything he could to pile up points. But since joining the Cleveland Cavaliers, the 13th overall pick of the 2017 Draft admitted that he has changed that mindset, aware that he needs to lead his younger teammates to become better. Advertisement With the Cavs, Mitchell is surrounded by young talent, including Darius Garland, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Aware of their potential, Donovan admits to taking a step back so these players can evolve. "I think it allowed me to look at my season in a different light. Understanding that I did take a step back for others to continue to grow. That's a thing," Mitchell shared when he spoke on the Bleacher Report with Taylor Rooks. "So I got to find ways to elevate the guys around me and allow them to grow." Mitchell admitted it took a lot of restraint to change his ways. When he was with the Utah Jazz, he recalls playing with older guys like Rudy Gobert, Joe Ingles and Mike Conley. Now, the case is different, with Mitchell being the elder statesman. "It's like a group thing and it's different. I'm the older guy. I'm not with Mike, Joe, Rudy… guys who were 10, 12 years in," he added. No place like home for Spida At 28, there is no question that at some point moving forward, Mitchell could move to another team. That depends on him or if the Cavs feel it would be necessary. Advertisement But, according to Spida, he would prefer to stay in Cleveland for a long time. He admits that he feels at peace with his current team, a place he can proudly call home. "I think for me, just being able to call a place home, be there and want to be there, and be like, 'Alright, cool, this is where I'm at. Obviously, that was huge, I'm in a new place in my life too…For me, just to be happy with Donovan, not even Donovan Mitchell," the 6'3" guard stated. Related: Kevin Garnett left Michael Jordan off his all-time starting five: "He is the god, and we copied him and s—t, but I got Kob' at my two" Cavs' outlook looks promising With Mitchell defining and accepting his role on the team, there is no question that the Cavaliers' future looks promising. Considering not many paid attention to them at the start of the 2024-25 season, their run was unprecedented. Advertisement Topping the Eastern Conference with a 64-18 win-loss record was impressive. Last season, it was the second-best record behind the 2025 champion Oklahoma City Thunder. At one point, it appeared they were on a collision course to face the Thunder in what could have been a fascinating duel. That was until the Indiana Pacers entered the picture. The Pacers were also unheralded but surprised many with their postseason run. It all started with their unexpected win over the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round. Most felt it was pure luck and the Cavs would push them back to reality. Instead, it was the Pacers who brought the Cavs crashing back to reality. They won 4-1 and carried that momentum to the NBA finals. For Cleveland, it was a reality check that work still needs to be done. Advertisement Like the Thunder and the Pacers, the Cavaliers have a young core that has proven itself. Despite being ousted in the second round of the playoffs for the second year in a row, there is time to re-assess what Cleveland is lacking. Mitchell embracing the leadership role and is taking it upon himself to guide his young teammates is a step in the right direction. Will it be a different story next season? After being stopped dead in their tracks, the bar is arguably higher for the Cavaliers. Related: "People don't know how strong that guy is" - Kevin McHale on Larry Bird's most underrated trait as a player This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Jul 1, 2025, where it first appeared.
