A Costly Lakers Trade Proposal for Lauri Markkanen That the Jazz Can’t Decline.
The Los Angeles Lakers have thoroughly explored the trade market this summer but have come up short. Their primary roster additions are rookies Dalton Knecht and Bronny James, with only Knecht likely to contribute as a rotational player. Other than that, the Lakers are bringing back the same squad that faced a first-round exit last season.
The team was unable to acquire several targets, including Klay Thompson and Buddy Hield, and players like D’Angelo Russell reportedly hold limited trade value. Meanwhile, Western Conference rivals like the Warriors are pursuing Utah Jazz All-Star Lauri Markkanen. To prevent being outmaneuvered by other teams, the Lakers may have to overpay to secure Markkanen and form their own big three in Los Angeles.
**Trade Proposal:**
*Los Angeles Lakers Receive:* Lauri Markkanen
*Utah Jazz Receive:* Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, 2028 First-Round Pick Swap (LAL), 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2031 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Executing this deal may be seen as reckless by Rob Pelinka, given the significant long-term assets he’s willing to part with for a win-now player to support LeBron James and Anthony Davis in their remaining prime years. However, this trade might be the only offer the Jazz would accept after declining proposals from the Warriors, and it would significantly boost the Lakers’ chances of competing in the short term.
**Lakers Become a Contender in the West**
The Lakers possess a solid rotation with some weaknesses, particularly offensively. They missed key players like Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent due to injuries, and Max Christie was underutilized under coach Darvin Ham. Adding Markkanen, who averaged 23.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists last season, would enhance their starting lineup with strong complementary pieces.
Markkanen would seamlessly fit into the offense, able to stretch the floor and manage the game during non-LeBron minutes—a significant issue for the Lakers last season. His improved playmaking and reliable shooting would make him compatible with nearly any lineup combination. He could also effectively pair with Vanderbilt when Davis is off the court, benefiting from the offensive presence of both LeBron and Davis when they are on the floor together.
While losing Austin Reaves would impact the guard rotation, it could lead to more playing time for a gritty 3-and-D defender like Christie. Increased reliance on D’Angelo Russell is likely, but if he can replicate his performance from February last season, he may provide exactly what the Lakers need alongside LeBron as the main playmaker and three strong offensive options.
**Jazz Acquire the Lakers’ Best Assets**
If the trade is completed, the Jazz would effectively gain control of four years’ worth of Lakers draft picks, having already acquired the 2027 pick from the Russell Westbrook trade. No other team has assets as valuable as the Lakers, especially with LeBron potentially retiring soon. This offer is one the Jazz would likely accept, providing them with three additional picks and a strong asset in Reaves, whom the Lakers have been reluctant to trade despite interest from other teams.
Reaves averaged 15.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.5 assists, establishing himself as a solid combo guard on a contender. The Jazz might choose not to keep the 26-year-old but could trade him for a good return, adding more assets from the original Donovan Mitchell trade that brought them Markkanen.
Rui Hachimura would bring less value but could serve as a decent rotational forward for the Jazz if not traded alongside Reaves. While he may not fetch a first-round pick, there’s potential for growth with the 26-year-old forward. The main value in this deal lies in the picks, with Reaves serving as an intriguing bonus for either development or further trade.
**Lakers May Have to Overpay**
Markkanen could be the ideal offensive complement to LeBron and AD in today’s NBA, contributing size, shooting, and energy on the boards. He would thrive under JJ Redick’s innovative offensive schemes, finally making the playoffs in his seventh NBA season. However, this deal raises numerous questions for the Lakers that could benefit the Jazz.
While the Lakers might argue for one less first-round pick due to their value, the Jazz are under no pressure to trade Markkanen, who is happy in Utah. The Lakers will need to make an enticing offer to secure him, and the components of this trade are very appealing. Parting with Reaves would be significant, but if they include three future picks as well, the Jazz would be unlikely to refuse.
The Lakers could get under the tax line by trading Reaves and Hachimura for Markkanen’s $18 million contract this season. However, he will become a free agent next season, adding another hefty salary alongside LeBron and Davis, which could create additional challenges. While the Lakers might want to avoid this deal for several reasons, they may recognize it as the best opportunity for immediate success.
