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Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Lakers Have $111.5 Million In Expiring Contracts And 5 First Round Picks; Plenty Of Assets For Potential Trade
Lakers Have $111.5 Million In Expiring Contracts And 5 First Round Picks; Plenty Of Assets For Potential Trade originally appeared on Fadeaway World. The Los Angeles Lakers have made significant offseason moves to strengthen their roster, with their recent additions doing a splendid job of bolstering the rotation. While the team has indicated that it will make necessary trades to bring in reinforcements, many have argued that the Lakers lack the assets to do so. This may not be the case. Although their war chest of picks has been depleted significantly, they still possess five first-round picks (2026, 2028, 2030, 2031, and 2032) along with one second-round pick in 2032. Of these, the Lakers can trade the 2031 and 2032 first-round picks, since the remaining picks collide with outgoing first-rounders. In this regard, their five round picks could be viewed as pick swaps, which may be appealing to some teams. This doesn't fully reflect the value of the assets the Lakers possess on their salary sheet. With an abundance of expiring contracts, along with pending player options next summer, L.A. could see a significantly clearer salary sheet, which aligns with their plans for 2026. With this in mind, let's take a look at the cumulative value of the Lakers' expiring contracts this year. List of Lakers' Expiring Contracts (by value): LeBron James - $52.6 million Rui Hachimura - $18.2 million Austin Reaves (Player Option) - $14.8 million Gabe Vincent - $11.5 million Maxi Kleber - $11.0 million Jaxson Hayes - $3.4 million Total: $111.5 million, including Austin Reaves (he will most likely decline player option next summer) After combining these figures, the Lakers will see roughly $96.7 million coming off the books next summer. While this is a large sum already, when factoring in the likelihood of Austin Reaves declining his player option to test free agency, the Lakers could free up an additional $14.8 million. This brings the total tally up to a whopping $111.5 million in free cap space. The benefit of an expiring contract lies in the amount of cap space it can free up in the following season. Many rebuilding teams tend to trade for expiring contracts so they can create salary space to sign valuable free agents. Reports have indicated that the Lakers have similar plans, targeting the free-agent markets of 2026 and 2027 to make a big splash. Although the 2026 class of free agents doesn't necessarily have the best crop of stars, the 2027 class could be one to look out for. In the current scenario, the Lakers can still make trades to strengthen their roster. Several players have emerged as potential targets in this regard. From defensive stalwarts like Jrue Holiday to star-caliber big men like Bam Adebayo, the Purple and Gold have enough expiring contracts to facilitate a trade, while also possessing valuable draft capital to sweeten the deal. Reaves has garnered a lot of interest in the trade market. At 27 years old, he is an extremely capable guard, coming off a solid season of averaging 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game. Recent rumors have suggested that if the Lakers can't retain him next season, they may consider trading him to get some value for him while they can. It is abundantly clear that the Lakers will continue building their roster around their superstar Luka Doncic, as the team has effectively switched to his timeline this offseason. At 26 years old, Doncic promises to be one of the best players in the league for a long time to come. There are growing expectations that he will sign his extension with the team as well. Considering his commitment and ongoing recruitment efforts, the franchise appears to have secured its future. The decision to pivot from LeBron James has undoubtedly had an impact on the team as a whole, but the consensus suggests that the 40-year-old superstar will be with the team for training camp. Given the kind of roster the Lakers have managed to put together, they are poised to be competitive in the Western Conference. Although they may be a few pieces short of being considered a title contender, the organization could simply be biding its time before making a move, effectively signaling that they may be preparing for a major trade before the story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 23, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
5 Best Landing Spots For Mikal Bridges After Surprising Knicks News
5 Best Landing Spots For Mikal Bridges After Surprising Knicks News originally appeared on Fadeaway World. Mikal Bridges had himself a solid debut season with the New York Knicks last year. After appearing in every game for the team, the forward gave his all on both ends of the floor, recording an average of 17.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. While the forward has been one of the most reliable players on the Knicks' roster, considering the large-scale personnel changes the franchise is undergoing, Bridges may find himself on the trading block in the offseason. As per SiriusXM Radio's Frank Isola, Bridges, as well as Mitchell Robinson, have been viewed as potential outgoing contracts this offseason. In the case of the forward, the reason is quite simple. As of Wednesday, the 28-year-old became eligible for a $156 million contract extension, something the Knicks may not be willing to offer. Given that the Knicks faced disappointment in the Eastern Conference Finals, leading to personnel changes, it is blatantly clear that people in the organization are pointing fingers wherever it is convenient. In this regard, Bridges has been on the receiving end of criticism due to his disappearance in the series against the Indiana Pacers, a complete defensive meltdown, unbecoming of his heroics in the earlier rounds. If the rumors are to be considered true, then Bridges may be best served by looking for a new team. With this in mind, we explore the best landing spots for the Knicks forward. Detroit Pistons While the Knicks may be hesitant about trading Bridges to a team in the same conference, there is a lot of benefit in trading with the Detroit Pistons. As a young team with talented players and extensive draft reserves, New York could look to build while adding youth to their roster. Proposed Trade Details New York Knicks Receive: Ron Holland II, 2026 first-round pick, 2028 first-round pick, 2029 second-round pick (MIL) Detroit Pistons Receive: Mikal Bridges The addition of Bridges does wonders for a team like the Pistons. After facing defeat at the hands of the Knicks in the first round of the playoffs, Detroit displayed that they were on the rise, a force to be reckoned with in the East. Led by Cade Cunningham, the Pistons have a lot of pieces on their roster that contribute to winning. Adding Bridges would simply transform them into a legitimate playoff contender in the East. A perimeter defense anchored by Ausar Thompson and Bridges is intimidating enough. By also factoring in the 28-year-old's ability to stretch the floor with the three-point shot, with an average of 35.4% last season, Detroit could find new contributors on offense as well. This deal benefits Detroit as it gives them a key roster piece, and a durable one at that. Considering their run-ins with injury, having a consistent presence on the floor would aid in establishing some degree of rhythm as well. Golden State Warriors The Golden State Warriors might be the ideal fit for a player like Mikal Bridges. Seamlessly fitting into the template set up franchise legend Andre Iguodala, Bridges would immediately be a vital contributor for the Warriors on both ends of the floor. Proposed Trade Details New York Knicks Receive: Jonathan Kuminga, 2027 first-round pick Golden State Warriors Receive: Mikal Bridges A trade for Bridges with the Warriors may not be ideal from the point of view of offloading salary, but it would certainly help the Knicks add a potential star to their roster. Jonathan Kuminga's aspirations to become an All-Star would drive him to great heights in the East. Although he has garnered attention from teams like the Miami Heat as well, New York would be advised to sign him quickly and cultivate his talent for the future. Meanwhile, the acquisition of Bridges almost immediately fulfills the Warriors' need for a wing defender. Although his playmaking may not be up to par, Bridges could be a very capable rotational piece, playing small forward in most cases. The problem that Bridges' addition creates is associated with the team's decision to pivot from the "small ball" approach. Given that the Dubs will need a big man as well, the 28-year-old could potentially find himself coming off the bench for Draymond Green or Jimmy Butler. San Antonio Spurs The San Antonio Spurs are one of the most viable trading spots this offseason. Given their abundance of draft capital and young talent, the Knicks could find a way to leverage their assets to get the most out of the Spurs. Proposed Trade Details New York Knicks Receive: Devin Vassell, 2027 first-round pick (ATL), 2029 first-round pick San Antonio Spurs Receive: Mikal Bridges The Spurs were expected to make a much bigger splash in the trade market, primarily by leveraging their first-round picks in this year's draft. Unfortunately, this hasn't come to pass, and instead, San Antonio selected Dylan Harper with the No. 2 overall pick. While this has had major implications on the team's roster makeup, it is evident that San Antonio still needs to make some adjustments to become truly competitive. In this regard, Mikal Bridges may be the ideal piece. In a lineup featuring De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper, the Spurs are rather shorthanded in the frontcourt. Although Harrison Barnes remains a reliable veteran, his productivity has fallen off a cliff. Acquiring Bridges answers the team's need for a solid perimeter defender to pair with Victor Wembanyama on the inside. The added boost on the two-way front could yield favorable results for the Spurs. Meanwhile, the Knicks benefit from acquiring two key draft assets for the future, along with a young guard with upside in Devin Vassell. His averages of 16.3 points and 4.0 rebounds hold a lot of promise for the future, particularly considering that he is in the second year of his five-year, $135 million contract. Sacramento Kings The Sacramento Kings are looking to make some big moves to improve their roster in the offseason. With players such as DeMar DeRozan made available in trade talks, the Kings could look to restructure their approach towards trades by turning their attention towards this proposal with New York. Proposed Trade Details New York Knicks Receive: Malik Monk, Devin Carter, 2026 first-round pick Sacramento Kings Receive: Mikal Bridges This deal works perfectly well for both parties. For the Knicks, they receive two fairly team-friendly contracts, with three years left before they become extension-eligible. In addition to this, they also acquire a first-round pick in next year's draft, which can be viewed as a valuable developmental piece or a trade chip. Meanwhile, this deal works out well for the Kings as well. With DeRozan potentially on the way out, Sacramento will need a wing. Bridges brings effective contributions on both ends of the floor, solidifying the team's perimeter and also improving their overall defensive integrity. The challenge in this proposal is to understand what the Kings plan to do in the upcoming season. If this is meant to rebuild a season for them, Bridges may be a wasteful purchase, but as an expiring contract, he could still be valuable in clearing cap space next summer. Miami Heat The Miami Heat have been incredibly active in recent trade rumors, with the likes of Andrew Wiggins becoming the name on everyone's tongues. While a trade with the Heat would be beneficial for the Knicks, they are unlikely to get Wiggins in a trade. Instead, a more interesting proposal may present itself. Proposed Trade Details New York Knicks Receive: Nikola Jovic, Jaime Jaquez Jr., 2028 first-round pick Miami Heat Receive: Mikal Bridges With Wiggins on the way out, the Heat will require a primary wing defender and perimeter threat. Although he isn't as gifted a scorer as Wiggins is, Bridges is by far a superior defender, and on a team like the Heat, this aspect will be given great value. The Heat have made it abundantly clear that they have no intention of running it back with the squad they have. While their star Bam Adebayo has also been introduced in trade rumors, it is highly unlikely they would part ways with him. Instead, the Heat may look to supplement their roster with key rotational players, like Bridges. Parting with Jovic and Jaquez may not necessarily be on Miami's cards right away, especially considering that Pat Riley refused to include them in a trade package for Kevin Durant. But should the Knicks wear him down enough, they would benefit greatly from completing this deal. New York Should Retain Bridges The Knicks are coming off a tremendous run in the playoffs. Although the media has dubbed the season an abject failure, fanning the flames leading up to Tom Thibodeau's firing, New York showed that they have the right pieces to compete in the East. With major changes in the conference, the East is expected to get much weaker. This allows the Knicks to establish themselves as the top team in the conference. While they have enough talented players to allow them to achieve this, retaining Bridges would be the last piece in the story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jun 26, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
18-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Dame goes home, Beal's LA fit + Giannis' Bucks future with Ben Thompson & Andrew Sharp
Subscribe to The Kevin O'Connor Show Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube Kevin O'Connor reacts to the stunning news that Damian Lillard chose to return to the Portland Trail Blazers. Why KOC loves the fit, and could see this working out great for Portland. PLUS Kevin says the Los Angeles Clippers are winning the offseason after adding Bradley Beal, who is a clear-cut upgrade over Norm Powell. And then KOC is joined by Andrew Sharp and Ben Thompson to discuss the future of Giannis Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee — have the Bucks done enough? Could the Myles Turner signing backfire? And the guys deep-dive on Andrew's favorite squad, the Washington Wizards. Is there optimism in DC after landing Tre Johnson? It's all ahead! (00:25) - Damian Lillard returns to Portland (3:25) - Bradley Beal returns to LA (7:20) - Talking Bucks & Wizards with Ben Thompson & Andrew Sharp 🖥️
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
2 Trade Deals Between Lakers And Heat That Could Perfectly Work For Both Teams
2 Trade Deals Between Lakers And Heat That Could Perfectly Work For Both Teams originally appeared on Fadeaway World. In the rather crazy landscape of NBA offseason trades so far, the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat are reportedly circling each other, with two interesting swap scenarios quietly gathering momentum. Each offers a compelling win-win, but the real intrigue lies in the details of what we propose. Advertisement In a bold flip, one scenario would send a polished wing with a championship pedigree to L.A., a player who's both a defensive asset and a capable scorer, in exchange for a pair of promising role players and a future draft pick. A second proposal sees the Lakers moving a burgeoning two-way guard to Miami, hoping to deepen their guard rotation, while reclaiming another rising talent along with a first-rounder. At the heart of both ideas? Andrew Wiggins, whose blend of size, defense, and streaky scoring continues to fuel trade whispers. And not far behind: Jaime Jaquez Jr., the Heat rookie standout whose high-motor, two-way feel has made him an intriguing piece for contending teams. Over the next few paragraphs, we'll break down how each package aligns with L.A.'s championship timeline around LeBron James and Luka Doncic and Miami's youth-driven rebuild, and whether both teams could walk away feeling like winners. Lakers Add Andrew Wiggins To Fortify Their Perimeter Defense Mar 21, 2025; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins (22) drives past Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) in the second half at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn ImagesMandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Andrew Wiggins Miami Heat Receive: Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, 2032 second-round pick (LAL) Across the 2024-25 season, Andrew Wiggins posted a solid 18.0 PPG, 4.5 RPG, and 2.6 APG across 30.7 minutes per game, shooting 44.8% from the field and 37.4% from three. But it's his stalwart defense that makes him invaluable to Los Angeles. Wiggins ranked highly in defensive rating among his teammates and opponents in Golden State, routinely tasked with guarding the opposition's top wing scorer, and logging 1.0 steals and 0.8 blocks per game. Advertisement In a championship-caliber Lakers setup, Wiggins would fill the critical 3-and-D wing niche next to their superstar duo, plugging into rotations seamlessly. His 56.6% true shooting paints a picture of efficiency, while his length and versatility match up well with modern positionless NBA offenses. The Lakers' appeal is obvious: a proven two-way starter with playoff experience, unmatched size (6'7", 197 lbs), and a championship ring on his resume. Heading into next season, the defense-first Lakers need a reliable perimeter stopper; Wiggins checks that box. The Heat would bolster depth and future upside by receiving two rotation players, Rui Hachimura (13.1 PPG, 5.0 RPG) and Jarred Vanderbilt (4.1 PPG, 5.1 RPG), plus a 2032 second-round pick. For L.A., this trade cements their perimeter defense without sacrificing cap space or top-tier assets. A Clever Trade To Improve Their Bench By Involving Dalton Knecht Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Jaime Jacquez Jr. Miami Heat Receive: Dalton Knecht, 2031 first-round pick (LAL) At just 24, Jaime Jaquez Jr. has already proven his two-way prowess for Miami, averaging 8.6 PPG, 4.4 RPG, and 2.5 APG in 20.7 minutes per game, while shooting a reliable 46.1% from the field. He's shown a knack for timely scoring, highlighted by a 41-point, 10-rebound, 7-assist explosion in April, and delivers consistent hustle and energy off the bench. Advertisement Jaquez's versatility, guarding wings, pressing the pace, and even playmaking fit perfectly with the Lakers' identity. His 6'6", 225 lb frame and developing three-point shot (31.1%) add value as a multi-positional rotation piece. For L.A., this trade brings back a young, ascending guard who can step into critical bench minutes, with room to grow and contribute immediately. Miami, in turn, gains guard Dalton Knecht (9.1 PPG, 2.8 RPG), who'd shore up their backcourt depth, and a 2031 first-round pick from Los Angeles. It's a smart move for the Heat: they diversify their guard rotation now and add future draft capital for rebuilding or flipping. Related: The Best Lakers Targets Right Now: Shooter, 3-And-D Wing, Power Forward A 2-Trade Deal That Works Out For Both Teams Put together, these trades represent a comprehensive two-for-one swap: Los Angeles shores up starters with Andrew Wiggins and beefs up the second unit with Jaquez Jr., while Miami dives deeper into youth and potential with Knecht, Hachimura, Vanderbilt, and multiple picks on the table. Each team walks away with clearly defined roles filled, aligned with their objectives: the Lakers gear up for a deep playoff run, whereas the Heat stay future-flexible. Advertisement Statistically and stylistically, it's a clean fit: Wiggins brings veteran defense, Jaquez Jr. injects energy and multi-positional value, and Miami doesn't just lose players, they gain draft flexibility and foundational pieces. And with Wiggins and Jaquez Jr. teased as the marquee returns, the buzz is all about positioning: can L.A. maximize perimeter reliability, and will Miami develop their next wave of contributors? Ultimately, this dual-package trade offers clarity and balance, two teams retooling in ways that feel both coherent and competitive. Related: Lakers Have No Regrets About Signing Deandre Ayton And Choosing Size Over Culture This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 6, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
13-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Derrick White Breaks Silence After Celtics Trades
Derrick White Breaks Silence After Celtics Trades originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Boston Celtics made a few seismic changes this offseason, most notably trading Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. Boston did this not because they wanted to get rid of those two per se, but because they wanted to get under the NBA's second tax apron. Advertisement Other Celtics also appeared in trade rumors, like Derrick White, who was floated as a potential trade target for the Golden State Warriors by Logan Murdock. However, nothing ever materialized from that and White remains a Celtic. Regardless, the Celtics will be a very different team next year. Not just from trading Porzingis and Holiday, but also because Luke Kornet has left for San Antonio, and indications are Al Horford will leave too. Plus, Jayson Tatum likely won't play during the 2025-26 season. Boston Celtics guard Derrick White (9)© Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images With all the changes Boston has made, White spoke for the first time about the trades they've made. While talking with NBC Sports' Chris Forsberg, White talked about their losses and what's to come next season. Advertisement "It's always tough to see guys leave, especially people that you won a championship with and had so many great battles with," White told Forsberg. "Obviously, seeing KP and Jrue get traded, it was tough to see. And then Luke (Kornet) signs somewhere else. "Having a different team and having those guys leave is kind of difficult, but it's part of the business, and I'm confident the guys that we have coming in and the guys that we still have returning. So it's gonna be a lot of fun, and it's gonna be a different challenge, but I think that's just the great thing about basketball." Unless the Celtics make more changes before the new season starts, White's new teammates will be Anfernee Simons, Georges Niang, Josh Minott, Luka Garza, Hugo Gonzalez, and Max Shulga. Advertisement Related: Celtics' Brad Stevens Announces Al Horford News After Lakers Report Related: Celtics Facing Backlash After Trade Announcement This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 9, 2025, where it first appeared.
