Lakers Trade Proposal Sends Austin Reaves To Kings For Elite Stretch Four and Pick
Sep 6, 2025
The Los Angeles Lakers are going to have some tough decisions to make soon. Now that they are building their roster around Luka Doncic, they need to find his ideal running mates for the present and future.
One player who could potentially be on the Lakers' trade block is Austin Reaves. Reaves, despite being a really good basketball player, might not be the ideal player to start next to Luka. Reaves’ defensive limitations will only be highlighted with Luka on the floor. The Lakers may decide that they want to surround Luka with more defensive-minded role players in the future.
This is why an Austin Reaves trade makes a lot of sense. Sports Illustrated’s Ethen Hutton proposed a Lakers-Austin Reaves trade that could put Luka and the Lakers in a better position to win.
“Los Angeles Lakers receive Keegan Murray, 2027 first-round pick
Sacramento Kings receive Austin Reaves
The Lakers are in something of a win-now situation as James’ time in L.A.’s comes to a close. Whether it be from retirement, or an exit in free agency, all signs point to this being James’ final season with the Lakers. Recognizing the urgency, Rob Pelinka and company began retooling.
Pelinka filled a massive need in the post, bringing in veteran big man DeAndre Ayton in free agency. The focus now shifts to consistent perimeter shooting from the wing. Moving a high-end asset like Reaves could help L.A. add a younger, developing player while filling a position of need, such as Keegan Murray.”
This could be a solid trade for the Lakers. Reaves is a more versatile offensive player than Murray, but Murray is a better shooter and defender. With Luka taking most of the ball-handling duties, he probably needs more 3-and-D stars like Murray than secondary ball handlers like Reaves. On top of that, the extra first-round pick makes this a home run for the Lakers.
