The Los Angeles Lakers have urgently needed a reliable center since last season. After falling short of reaching the conference finals for a second consecutive year, the team is now exploring all possible options to strengthen its frontcourt. One of the few valuable trade assets the Lakers still possess is their rising star, Austin Reaves.
According to a recent report by Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times, the Lakers are open to exploring trade possibilities involving Reaves. However, there’s a significant condition attached. Woike noted that the team has no intention of trading Reaves unless they receive a high-level center in return.
“The team has shown no interest in using Reaves in a trade that nets them anything less than a top-tier big, and there aren’t any of those available, with the two most common names linked to them in the earliest stages of the offseason — Brooklyn’s Nic Claxton and Dallas’ Daniel Gafford,” Woike reported.
REPORT: The Lakers are unlikely to trade Austin Reaves and would only consider doing so for a top-tier big man, per @DanWoikeSports of the LA Times. Reaves is not untouchable, but the team values him highly and isn’t actively exploring trade options. 🚨 pic.twitter.com/lnHGZp7RgH
— Lakers Better (@LakersBetter) May 16, 2025
Before the trade deadline, the Lakers had a deal lined up involving the Charlotte Hornets’ star center Mark Williams. The proposed trade would have sent Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, and future draft picks to acquire Williams. However, the Lakers eventually backed out of the agreement after Williams failed his physical exam.
Lakers Could Make Bold Move For Giannis Antetokounmpo In Exchange For Austin Reaves
According to Sam Quinn of CBS Sports, the Lakers may consider assembling a trade package for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. The proposed deal would reportedly include Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, a salary filler, and a collection of future draft picks.
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REPORT: The Lakers might land Giannis Antetokounmpo for a package of Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, cap filler, and draft capital
— SMJ (@SixthManJake) May 16, 2025
If Giannis pushes for LA + makes things uncomfortable for other suitors, it’s possible, unlikely, but you can’t rule it out, via @SamQuinnCBS pic.twitter.com/PPTKalOwlD
Giannis is reportedly more open than ever to exploring his options. For the Lakers, acquiring a player of Giannis’ caliber would be a game-changing addition to their roster.
Meanwhile, Reaves has become a reliable contributor and fan favorite in L.A. He averaged 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists during this regular season. However, if the Lakers ever get the opportunity to land a generational talent like Giannis, it may be too good to pass up.
