Latest news with #LauriMarkkanen
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3 days ago
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4 Ideal Destinations For Lauri Markkanen Amid Recent Trade Rumors
4 Ideal Destinations For Lauri Markkanen Amid Recent Trade Rumors originally appeared on Fadeaway World. Lauri Markkanen has been one of the most productive players for the Utah Jazz during his tenure with the team. While it would be highly unlikely for the Jazz to part ways with the forward, the recent trade of John Collins has effectively changed the outlook of the franchise. Recent revelations have suggested that the Jazz traded Collins because of his impact on winning. If this is to be considered true, a similar future may present itself for Markkanen, who averaged 19.0 points and 5.9 rebounds while shooting 42.3% from the field and 34.6% from three-point range. ESPN's Brian Windhorst addressed this matter on a recent episode of "The Hoop Collective" podcast, when talking about the possibility of Markkanen being traded. He said: "I don't think Markkanen is getting traded in the next few weeks. I know this is not necessarily what he signed up for, so keep an eye on Markkanen.' While this presents a vague future, there is a real likelihood for the Jazz forward to be on the way out of Utah. Considering that he has been involved in trade rumors with the Lakers, there is certainly a market for him. But with a $46,394,100 cap hit this season and with four years left on his contract, teams may be hesitant to trade for him due to the risk of going over the first apron. With this in mind, we explore four ideal destinations for the 28-year-old this offseason. Brooklyn Nets The Brooklyn Nets have been making some interesting moves this offseason. Although they have some capable scorers on their side, they could benefit from having a player possessing Lauri Markkanen's skillset anchor their frontcourt rotation. Proposed Trade Details Brooklyn Nets Receive: Lauri Markkanen Utah Jazz Receive: Nic Claxton, Terance Mann, Noah Clowney, 2027 first-round pick (NYK), 2031 first-round pick A deal of this nature would be considered quite outrageous, but the benefits for the Nets are not to be overlooked. The addition of Lauri Markkanen would be a massive boost to the overall roster strength. The recent acquisition of Michael Porter Jr. from the Denver Nuggets only added to the offensive firepower. With a versatile forward like Markkanen starting next to him, Brooklyn would have significantly more offensive options available to them. Markkanen's length is also a big factor in this move. At 7'0" tall, the Finnish forward would be the tallest person in the starting rotation. Paired with an athletic big man like Day'Ron Sharpe, who is capable of holding his own in the paint, the Nets would feature an offensively flexible frontcourt if the trade goes through. The decision to part ways with Claxton also finds some basis in the performance of Nets rookie Danny Wolf in the Summer League. Wolf has showcased tremendous ball handling and playmaking ability for a player of his size. Should the Nets cultivate his talents, he would be a tremendous fit next to Markkanen in the starting rotation. Detroit Pistons Another team that could benefit from adding some size to its roster is the Detroit Pistons. The Pistons are primed to make a rise through the ranks of the Eastern Conference next season, and with Markkanen on their side, they would be a force to be reckoned with. Proposed Trade Details Detroit Pistons Receive: Lauri Markkanen Utah Jazz Receive: Tobias Harris, Caris LeVert, 2027 first-round pick The Jazz do this deal to acquire expiring and short-term contracts along with draft capital. But the Pistons do this deal purely to become a contender in the East. Given the current state of the conference, the Pistons have a real shot at being a top-4 team. Led by an inspiring young star in Cade Cunningham, Detroit features all the right pieces to be a threat, except for size. While Jalen Duren has had an immense impact on the team's interior defense and rebounding effort, the lack of size in the frontcourt has limited their overall output. The addition of Markkanen would give the team a lot more balance. Markkanen's ability to stretch the floor would create more opportunities for players like Ausar Thompson and Cade Cunningham to operate near the basket. Interestingly, the departure of Tim Hardaway Jr. also created a need for a perimeter threat. The addition of Duncan Robinson addressed this need, but it also allows a stretch forward like Markkanen to seamlessly fit into the rotation. While the on-court chemistry may take time to develop, Markkanen's presence could ultimately prove beneficial for this young Pistons squad. Portland Trail Blazers Since allowing Deandre Ayton to walk in free agency, the Portland Trail Blazers need a more dynamic, star-caliber player. With Markkanen available on the market, the Blazers could look to restructure their franchise around the 28-year-old. Proposed Trade Details Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Lauri Markkanen Utah Jazz Receive: Jerami Grant, Matisse Thybulle, 2027 first-round pick, 2029 second-round pick (WAS or IND) The Trail Blazers could prove to be an interesting landing spot for Lauri Markkanen this offseason. While Portland's long-term direction remains unclear, indications suggest they intend to move on from Jerami Grant's contract. In this trade scenario, Grant's departure would be greeted by Markkanen's arrival. This would be an upgrade in every sense. Markkanen's perimeter shooting and overall offensive versatility make him a superior acquisition to Grant. Although his defensive contributions pale in comparison, the forward proves to be a more reliable presence on the floor overall. The Blazers aren't in a position to compete at this juncture, especially considering how stacked the Western Conference is. In the immediate context, the pairing of Markkanen and the newly acquired Jrue Holiday could make for a formidable duo. But with some talented players on their roster, Portland could look to structure their rebuild around their young players instead, with the 28-year-old playing the role of the veteran leader. Washington Wizards The Washington Wizards have made a lot of moves this offseason, acquiring a lot of veteran talent in the process of doing so. With a relatively competent roster, the Wizards could look to bolster their starting rotation by trading for Lauri Markkanen. Proposed Trade Details Washington Wizards Receive: Lauri Markkanen Utah Jazz Receive: Marcus Smart, Corey Kispert, 2026 first-round pick (PHX), 2027 first-round pick, 2029 second-round pick (HOU) Last season, the Wizards finished at the bottom of the East with the worst record in the NBA. After making some changes, the team is primed to be more competitive. The addition of CJ McCollum gives some legs to their starting backcourt, but it is quite evident that their frontcourt needs some support. A trade for Lauri Markkanen would answer the need for length and offensive firepower in the frontcourt. Paired with Khris Middleton on the wings, Markkanen would have the opportunity to be the primary scoring option on the team. Injuries have disrupted Markkanen's rhythm, but he's proven capable of carrying an offense. A trio of Markkanen, McCollum, and Middleton could potentially be effective if the three of them remain healthy. The outlook with the Wizards is possibly the weakest among the four teams mentioned. But the opportunity to be the go-to option on offense could do wonders in improving Markkanen's overall value. Is It Time For The Jazz To Trade Markkanen? There are multiple ways to approach this question, especially while considering what the Jazz's approach to the offseason has been. Utah has made attempts to acquire short-term deals, expiring contracts, and draft capital. While this would indicate an attempt at building through the draft and rebuilding, the Jazz haven't necessarily succeeded in doing so thus far. Drafting Ace Bailey and developing Keyonte George could have promise in the future, but Markkanen is entering his prime and has four years left on his contract. If the timelines aren't matching, Utah should consider trading the forward while his contract still has story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 11, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Sport
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5 NBA Stars Who Could Be Traded Before Training Camp
5 NBA Stars Who Could Be Traded Before Training Camp originally appeared on Fadeaway World. The NBA offseason might be slowing down, but the trade market is far from closed. While most teams have made their major moves, several big-name players are still caught in limbo, with training camp just weeks away. Whether it's unresolved contract disputes, awkward roster fits, or teams pivoting toward new timelines, the trade chatter hasn't stopped. And for a few stars, that could mean a change of scenery before the first practice even begins. From Jonathan Kuminga's standoff with the Warriors to DeMar DeRozan's uncertain future, here are five NBA stars who could be moved before training camp tips off in late September. Lauri Markkanen The Utah Jazz are set to spend another season at the bottom of the standings, and that's by design. Since the departures of Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert years ago, the Jazz have been in a deep rebuild that's still going today. With career averages of 18.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game on 45.5% shooting, Markkanen is now their leading star, but at 28 years old, his timeline doesn't quite fit the ongoing youth movement in Utah. As a versatile 7'0" big man with a team-first mentality, Markkanen is highly coveted across the league, and the Jazz could net a sweet return if they were to strike a deal. As a former All-Star, Lauri has the potential to change the entire trajectory of his next NBA franchise, and it wouldn't be surprising if he suddenly found himself in a new situation on a contending team in need of frontcourt depth. Jonathan Kuminga With averages of 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game last season, Jonathan Kuminga was expecting a serious pay raise from the Warriors this summer, but they've been reluctant to meet his demands. His skills and youth make him an ideal fit for any team, but he's overstayed his welcome in San Francisco after a season of inconsistency in the rotation. Drafted 7th overall in 2021, Kuminga isn't close to his peak yet, but that development likely won't happen in a Warriors system prioritizing veteran success now. Of course, as a restricted free agent, the Warriors have the right to match any deal for Kuminga, but they'd seemingly rather do a sign-and-trade deal than offer the $25+ million that he seeks. Interestingly, the Phoenix Suns may be able to pull off a deal if they are willing to pay the price. DeMar DeRozan The Sacramento Kings are in a weird state right now, being neither a contender nor a lottery-level team. With zero expectations, no moves are off the table for the Kings, especially one that could flip 35-year-old DeMar DeRozan into a younger asset to help build up their future. Even at this stage of his career, DeRozan could net a decent return in a trade, and the Kings would get some relief having his two-year, $50 million contract off the books. While DeRozan is in an undeniable decline, he's still capable of putting up big numbers, coming off a season where he put up 22.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game on 47.7% shooting. If that's not enough, there's going to be at least one NBA playoff team that considers DeRozan for his experience and leadership in the locker room, like maybe the Heat or another veteran team. Darius Garland The Cleveland Cavaliers have been eerily quiet this summer, and that's not the typical strategy for a team coming off a failed playoff run. While the Cavs might be keen to run it back after winning 64 games last season, experts agree they are probably better off shaking things up to prevent another early playoff exit. The Cavaliers could net a massive return for Darius Garland, given his age, skillset, and long-term upside. As a 2x All-Star and 25-year-old point guard, he's got the potential to be a future Hall of Famer, and he's already on the way with averages of 20.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 6.7 assists in the 2024-25 campaign. As a versatile two-way athlete, trading Garland would not come easily for the Cavs, but it might just be what helps tip them over the edge. LeBron James In Los Angeles, LeBron James is still coming to terms with his new reality. With Luka Doncic as the center of attention, James has been left feeling like the odd man out, leading to countless rumors about his departure. At 40 years old, retirement is also on the horizon for LeBron, but it may not come before he wears another jersey. Even after 22 seasons, King James is still a top-level player with averages of 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game on 51.3% shooting. Besides his play on the court, James is a proven leader and experienced winner who can bring out the best in any locker room. Since he has a no-trade clause, James will only be dealt if he wants to, but it may not be a bad road to take at this point. Of course, any team hoping to land the King would also need to navigate the Bronny James dynamic, but there are still plenty of GMs willing to take the risk. Who Will Get Traded? No matter how quiet things may seem in late July, the NBA is never short on movement. As training camp approaches, these five names remain among the most likely to shake up the league before the new season even begins. Whether it's youth vs. experience, contract tensions, or front-office shifts in direction, the right offer could tip the scales and bring a blockbuster deal to life. With uncertainty surrounding stars like LeBron James, Lauri Markkanen, and Jonathan Kuminga, front offices across the NBA are watching closely. One trade could completely reshape the playoff race—or signal a rebuild that fans didn't see coming. The offseason may be winding down, but for these five players, the real drama might be just getting story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 27, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
19-07-2025
- Business
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Utah Jazz's Concrete Lauri Markkanen Trade Plans Emerge
The NBA has seen several blockbuster trades executed this offseason, but the Utah Jazz haven't been involved in either sending out or adding star talent. That's despite some strong interest in trading for Lauri Markkanen. While teams may be interested in the one-time All-Star power forward, the Jazz don't appear any closer to trading their Finnish marksman. According to ESPN's NBA expert Tim MacMahon, the Jazz have no plans to trade the 28-year-old this offseason. 'A lot of scouts and executives to wonder whether the Jazz would trade 28-year-old Markkanen next, as new president of basketball operations Austin Ainge takes over as the primary decision-maker in the franchise's is not Utah's intention, sources told ESPN. It would be too much to describe Markkanen as untouchable, but the Jazz still project the All-Star forward as a key player in their future core.' ESPN on Lauri Markkanen trade The Jazz have already traded the likes of Collin Sexton and John Collins, which fueled speculation that Markkanen could be next. Yet that doesn't seem to be in Utah's cards, at least not this offseason. Markkanen is entering the first season of a four-year, $195 million contract with the Jazz, where he'll earn a salary of $46.3 million during the 2025-26 season. Yet, instead of the Jazz trying to trade him for the best package available, Utah would prefer to see how competitive they can be at the start of the season first. Who knows? Perhaps a Markkanen trade is revisited ahead of the trade deadline, but for now, he appears to be off-limits. Related: Related Headlines Los Angeles Clippers Signing 3x All-Star Scorer Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl Starter Claims Team Traded Him Out of Fear Tigers Slugger Riley Green Turned Down Multiple Home Run Derby Invites? San Diego Padres game today: Includes full 2025 Padres schedule
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
A Decision Has Been Made on Trading Lauri Markkanen
A Decision Has Been Made on Trading Lauri Markkanen originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Amid a busy offseason, the Utah Jazz have made a final decision regarding Lauri Markkanen's future with the team. The Finnish big man has been one of the best players on the roster since he joined the West team from the Cleveland Cavaliers. Advertisement Markkanen was named as a potential trade target for multiple contenders in recent seasons, including the Golden State Warriors before they traded for Jimmy Butler, the Los Angeles Lakers before they landed Deandre Ayton and the Phoenix Suns before they completed a trade for Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks in a seven-team exchange. The market appears to be strong for the 2022-24 Most Improved Player of the Year, who averaged 19 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game, shooting 42.3% from the field, 34.6% from deep and 87.6% from the free-throw line. The Jazz switched their approach and parted ways with several veterans, such as Jordan Clarkson, John Collins and Colin Sexton, to open room for their young players. Utah Jazz star Lauri Markkanen© Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images Tim MacMahon of ESPN reports on Tuesday that all those moves made people within the league wonder if the Jazz were willing to part with Markkanen, too. With Austin Ainge taking over as the primary decision-maker, some thought they could take advantage and pull off a move for the veteran. Advertisement "That is not Utah's intention, sources told ESPN," MacMahon wrote. "It would be too much to describe Markkanen as untouchable, but the Jazz still project the All-Star forward as a key player in their future core." During his eight-year NBA career, Markkanen became a one-time All-Star and a member of the 2017-18 All-Rookie Team. At 27, he's just entering his prime and if the pieces click for the Jazz, he could be ready to lead them to contend in a couple of years. Related: Jazz Coach Speaks Out on Benching Walter Clayton Jr. For Being 'Nonchalant' This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 15, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Sport
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10 Players Who Should Be On Lakers' Radar Ahead Of 2025 Offseason
10 Players Who Should Be On Lakers' Radar Ahead Of 2025 Offseason originally appeared on Fadeaway World. As the 2024-25 season completed in early June, the Los Angeles Lakers once again demonstrated they remain on the cusp, powered by the formidable pairing of LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Their first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves, a 103-96 loss, sealed their elimination in Game 5, laying bare the roster's glaring deficiencies. Advertisement With LeBron now in the twilight of his career, likely with one or two seasons remaining, L.A.'s title window is closing fast. Their blueprint ahead: acquire an elite rim-rodding center, find a third star to elevate the ceiling, or inject playmaking depth to allow James to conserve energy. The frontcourt was once the Lakers' strength, but the reshuffling of the Anthony Davis trade, the failed Mark Williams deal, and reliance on undersized Jaxson Hayes left them vulnerable defensively and on the boards. Meanwhile, Doncic's offensive brilliance came with defensive scrutiny; "he couldn't guard a chair", as Charles Barkley quipped, reminding us that changes are needed. With franchise urgency dialed up, L.A. enters this offseason with supreme focus. Here are 10 players who should be at the top of the Lakers' radar: stars and role players who could solidify this roster and extend L.A.'s window of contention. 1. Lauri Markkanen Mar 17, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen (23) shoots a technical free throw during the first quarter against the Chicago Bulls at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Lauri Markkanen Utah Jazz Receive: Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, 2025 No. 55 Overall Pick, 2031 First-Round Pick (LAL) Utah's 7-footer still profiles as the rare stretch-4/5 who can be the third option on a title team rather than just a floor-spacer. He pumped in 19.0 PPG on 42.3% shooting and 5.9 RPG despite heavy defensive attention on a rudderless Utah Jazz squad. Advertisement It could be very possible that Danny Ainge is listening for packages built on first-round equity and young wings, signaling Lauri Markkanen might be available this summer. After all, Utah has the No. 5 pick in the draft and could be looking at a full-scale rebuild. If Rob Pelinka waves the Reaves-Hachimura-Vanderbilt trio plus a 2031 first, Markkanen slides in as the ultimate Luka-LeBron release valve. Picture the high-side pick-and-pop with Doncic, then pivoting to horns sets where James can rest on the weak side and still warp the defense with his gravity. 2. Walker Kessler Mar 7, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler (24) goes in for a layup over Toronto Raptors guard AJ Lawson (0) in the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn ImagesMandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Walker Kessler Utah Jazz Receive: Dalton Knecht, 2031 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2025 No. 55 Overall Pick The Lakers need a rim protector on a rookie deal? Walker Kessler ranked fifth in the league at 12.2 rebounds per game and swatted 2.4 shots a night in a tidy 30.0 minutes per game. While he's extension-eligible, reports say that Kessler could be made available if a team ponies up a first and a plus prospect, making a deal very probable. Advertisement Plug Kessler next to LeBron and Luka, and you instantly fix the Lakers' 15th-ranked defense. Kessler's vertical spacing means Doncic can throw lobs over the top of traps, and James can cherry-pick rest possessions knowing the back line is covered. The Reaves-lite playmaking, you lose by moving Dalton Knecht, is outweighed by the genuine anchor you gain in the paint. 3. Deandre Ayton Jan 6, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (2) shoots the ball over Detroit Pistons forward Tim Hardaway Jr. (8) in the first quarter at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Deandre Ayton Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht, 2031 First-Round Pick (LAL) Deandre Ayton's counting stats dipped, 14.4 PPG, 10.2 RPG on 56.6 FG%, but Portland's context was a mess, and he still finished top-15 in offensive rebound rate. The rebuilding Blazers would likely listen to offers for a player on a $35.5 million expiring deal, and the Lakers could pounce. Advertisement For L.A., Ayton is the high-usage center Anthony Davis used to be, without the nightly injury report. He'll set brutish cross-screens for Doncic, eat mid-post touches when LeBron sits, and his soft jumper keeps the paint clear for drives. The cap hit is heavy, but if the Lakers believe they're one star away, a one-year Ayton rental is cheaper than bidding on prime-aged free agents in 2026. 4. Nic Claxton Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton (33) reacts in the second quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Nic Claxton Brooklyn Nets Receive: Rui Hachimura, Dalton Knecht, 2031 First-Round Pick (LAL) Nic Claxton is a switch-everything fever dream: 10.3 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 2.2 APG while finishing 56.3% of his shots. We have already floated a three-team concept shipping him to L.A. while Brooklyn grabs Michael Porter Jr., proving the Nets are willing to talk if the sweetener is strong enough. Advertisement Stylistically, he's the anti-Ayton: low-usage, rim-running, and elite at switching 1-through-5. Imagine J.J. Redick rolling out Claxton alongside LeBron and Doncic on the same possession, and suddenly the floor opens up for the stars. Claxton is on a solid deal, as he earns $25.4M, $23.1M, and $20.9M over the next three seasons, so he can fit alongside Doncic in the long term. 5. Clint Capela Mar 25, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks center Clint Capela (15) grabs a rebound against the Indiana Pacers in the first quarter at State Farm Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images The 31-year-old Clint Capela isn't the nightly 14-14 wrecking ball of 2021, but he still chipped in 8.9 PPG and 8.5 RPG on 55.9 FG% while anchoring Atlanta's bench units. The Hawks, eyeing Onyeka Okongwu's ascension, have explored Capela trades since December, and that is why we have already floated the idea of the big man joining Los Angeles. Advertisement Capela is the budget-friendly play as he heads to free agency after his $22 million deal expires. He runs the floor, screens well, and lives on the offensive glass, just what Luka's heliocentric offense needs when defenses blitz him 35 feet out. The downside: no shooting, and he'll need a short-leash platoon with a stretch big in playoff crunch time. 6. Nickeil Alexander-Walker Apr 27, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (9) passes in the third quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers during game four of the first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images© Matt Blewett-Imagn Images A bench gunner with connective passing chops, Nickeil Alexander-Walker quietly averaged 9.4 PPG, 2.7 AST on 38.1 FG% for a deep Minnesota squad. He's extension-eligible, yet Minnesota's tax crunch and Anthony Edwards' super-max on the books make him a plausible cap casualty. Advertisement Think of him as the Ty Lue-era Lou Williams to LeBron's downhill drives: a second-side pick-and-roll creator who can soak up regular-season possessions and keep the bench unit from hemorrhaging points. At $6-7 M in restricted free agency, Alexander-Walker is the best insurance policy against Luka's ankle hiccups, which is why the Lakers are reportedly the favorites to bring him on board. 7. Nikola Vucevic Apr 6, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic (9) stands on the court during the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn ImagesMandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Nikola Vucevic Receive: Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, 2025 No. 55 Overall Pick Nikola Vucevic stayed steady in Chicago: 18.5 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 3.5 APG. Yet reports said that the front office wanted a first-round pick for him, an asking price that put off many contending teams. However, this offseason, that could change. Advertisement Vucevic could be made available for cheaper in the right deal. Offensively, he's the best passing big on this list. Slot him in 'delay' action up top and let LeBron prowl the dunker spot a la the 2013 Heat. The flip side: the big man is very poor defensively. This is a pure offense-over-defense gambit, but it might be a chance the Lakers might have to take. 8. Chris Paul San Antonio Spurs guard Chris Paul (3) reacts against the Los Angeles Lakers in the first half at Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Don't let the 40th-birthday cake fool you, Chris Paul still ranked 7th league-wide at 7.4 APG with 8.8 PPG on 42.7 FG%. Chris Paul could be weighing L.A. (to be near family) or retirement, making a vet-min or room-MLE deal realistic. Advertisement Yes, the Lakers tried 'old point guard' deja vu before, but Paul's fit is cleaner next to Luka. Think staggered minutes where CP orchestrates the second unit, sparing LeBron 4-5 possessions a game. If nothing else, he's the locker-room coach who can yank Luka's ear when the defense slips. 9. Dennis Schroder Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Dennis Schroder (17) moves the ball up court and directs a play against the New York Knicks during the second half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn ImagesMandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images Fresh off a bounce-back with Detroit, 13.1 PPG, 5.4 AST, 40.6 FG%, Dennis Schroder hits unrestricted free agency again. A third stint with the franchise could be desperate but feasible, citing L.A.'s bottom-five bench scoring. The case is simple: he already knows the Lakers and what comes with playing for them, can hound opposing guards for 94 feet, and runs downhill in transition, where Luka loves early-offense hit-ahead passes. As Schroder heads to free agency, the value is undeniable; just be ready for streaky shooting nights. 10. Robert Williams Portland Trail Blazers center Robert Williams III (35) grabs a rebound during the second half against LA Clippers guard Terance Mann (14) at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn ImagesMandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Robert Williams Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Jarred Vanderbilt, Shake Milton, 2025 No. 55 Overall Pick Health caveats aside, Robert Williams posted 5.8 PPG, 5.9 RPG, and 1.7 BLK in only 20 games before knee surgery, shooting 64.1%. Portland could move him with one year left on his deal, given their crowded center room, and the Lakers would be smart to move Jarred Vanderbilt in a potential deal for him. Advertisement If you buy the medical reports, Williams is the highest defensive ceiling on the board: a switch-to-the-perimeter big who also deters at the rim. Picture closing lineups of Luka-Reaves-LeBron-Williams. It's a swing-for-the-fences move, and maybe the last one of the LeBron era. Related: NBA Insider Lists 5 Realistic Centers For The Lakers This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jun 10, 2025, where it first appeared.
