Lakers aren’t going to get any value from swaps unless it’s in a trade with the Thunder or Spurs. I would be willing to give up our one tradable first round pick for Ellis in a swap for Knecht. I think that’s a deal that would be good for both teams.
Since Ellis is going to be a UFA, I woud prefer getting a legitimate small forward with our first round pick, either Wiggins or Brooks. We can still compete for a championship if we can fill the starting wing spot.
I think Hayes plus LeBron can handle the backup center untl next summer, when we may want to upgrade from Ayton to get a legitimate rim protector and/or floor spacer at center. Like Kessler and Olynyk in free agency.
From the above article:
With the offseason in full swing, whispers about the Los Angeles Lakers continue to swirl—can the iconic duo of LeBron James and Luka Dončić remain intact? Here’s a breakdown of the most talked-about stories from insiders and analysts.
1. LeBron Trade Talk Doesn’t Mean LeBron Wants Out
Even though agent Rich Paul stirred speculation by hinting the Lakers and LeBron might be evaluating mutual options, sources say no trade request has ever been made. Additionally, the Lakers “have never discussed” trade or buyout scenarios with the four-time NBA MVP, suggesting a return to L.A. is the likeliest outcome for the 2025–26 season. Still, trade buzz persists, with four anonymous teams reaching out to Paul about acquiring LeBron—though the Lakers are not engaging in substantive talks.
2. Big-Man Dream: Walker Kessler Remains the Lakers’ Top Trade Target
The Lakers have consistently eyed Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler this offseason as the ultimate upgrade in the frontcourt. Reports that despite L.A.’s continued interest, the Jazz have firmly marked him as “not available for trade”—a roadblock that steers the team toward other tradeable bigs.
Meanwhile, several alternative targets—including Nic Claxton or Daniel Gafford —each offering unique fits alongside Luka Dončić depending on how they balance salary and positional needs.
Addressing weakness in the middle remains a top priority. One insider noted that trade avenues—not free agency—present the most viable path for improving the Lakers’ center position. Myles Turner is also are among the available options. The team had also explored prospects like Onyeka Okongwu before attempting a trade for Mark Williams at the deadline; however, Utah’s steep asking price for Kessler and Atlanta’s reluctance on Okongwu halted any movement. A separate report noted the Lakers are facing “harsh trade reality” with the Jazz, suggesting acquiring a center will require flexibility and perhaps patience.
3. Sizable Interest in Cavaliers’ P.J. Washington
Another emerging rumor suggests the Lakers may soon pursue P.J. Washington of the Dallas Mavericks. ClutchPoints reports that L.A. is preparing potential trade strategies—either straight swaps or depth packages—to bolster their roster with Washington’s versatility. While still speculative, the move underscores the front office’s commitment to strengthening scoring and defensive balance for the coming season.
4. Lakers Have No Interest In Andrew Wiggins Trade
NBA: Playoffs-Cleveland Cavaliers at Miami Heat
Despite frequent rumors linking Andrew Wiggins to LA, recent reports indicate Los Angeles is no longer interested in acquiring him. According to The Athletic’s Dan Woike on the Zach Lowe show, the Lakers simply “are not interested in Andrew Wiggins. I think I can put that to bed”.
Supporting this stance, Bleacher Report quotes Lakers insider Jovan Buha stating that a trade is “not looking realistic” due to Miami’s steep demands—reportedly requiring Rui Hachimura, Dalton Knecht, and a first-round pick. Given the Lakers’ cap constraints and already solidified core with LeBron and Luka, parting with those valuable assets just doesn’t make strategic sense.
In short, while Wiggins might have theoretical fit, the cost outweighs the benefit—making the Lakers’ disinterest both logical and resoundingly clear.
5. Adding Veteran Wings in the Mix
L.A. has also quietly explored acquiring familiar perimeter talent. Trade talks have taken place over Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Donte DiVincenzo, though neither deal took off. With Marcus Smart now on the roster, those small moves hint at a broader—but deliberate—ramp-up of wing depth.
LOL. Could be an AI article.
It would explain a lot lol
When was this even “written”? Certainly not in the last month or the “authors” is a buffoon…
LOL. I’ve actually been utilizing AI for some of the questions and issues related to the ADU that we’re building on my son and daughter-in-law’s property.
It’s obviously great in that it searches everything and brings back the data almost in a printable report format. The presentation is what’s really impressive. Not yet in final form but getting closer every day.
That last article I am convinced was 90% AI. You can see it getting a coach or player name wrong and not catching it yet. Give it a year and AI may not be detectable at all.