The Los Angeles Lakers roster looks quite different than a year ago, which may force them to make another blockbuster move.
The Los Angeles Lakers have made some big moves over the past year, with the Anthony Davis for Luka Dončić trade midway through last season being at the forefront.
The acquisition of Dončić has led to speculation that LeBron James is no longer the team's top priority, as Luka could be the cornerstone of the franchise moving forward. If true, the Lakers' supporting cast may be catered toward the 26-year-old superstar rather than James.
Building toward the future may be in Los Angeles' best interest, presuming Dončić is with the club for the long haul. So, this recent trade proposal gets Luka the help he needs for long-term success.
“All conversations around the Lakers seem to be revolved around whether or not LeBron James is going to be moved, which still seems unlikely,” Atlanta Hawks on SI's Jackson Caudell said Sunday.
The proposed trade has the Lakers receiving Lauri Markkanen and Svi Mykhailiuk, the Utah Jazz getting Austin Reaves, Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, Dalton Knecht, and two first-round picks, and the Atlanta Hawks would get Jarred Vanderbilt.
“Markkanen is a fantastic offensive player who gives the Lakers more shooting and size. It is a steep price to pay, but the Lakers are all-in on adding talent around Doncic and making this his team once James leaves.” Caudell continued.
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The idea is focused on the team post-LeBron, and Markkanen would be a great running mate alongside Luka when that time comes.
Just three seasons ago, Markkanen was the Most Improved Player and averaged 25 points per game en route to being selected as an All-Star.
He is a terrific off-ball mover and has the ability to be a catch-and-shoot threat, the ideal candidate for Dončić to be surrounded by.
Reaves may be the odd man out, which is why this trade works so well. The Lakers could capitalize on his value now in case he becomes frustrated with his role in Los Angeles.
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Category: Basketball
