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After roping in Luka Doncic in a blockbuster trade deal, the LA Lakers have not met with complacency and are still looking for additions to the squad. In the process, they have singled out a new target. It is no secret that the Lakers are searching for a forward, who can support Luka Doncic and LeBron James on the court. The Lakers have reportedly found the individual they are seeking, and it is from the Indiana Pacers roster.
Lakers Looking to Trade Austin Reaves in Exchange for Pascal Siakam
As per rumors, the Lakers are mulling a big deal package focused on rising guard Austin Reaves to acquire Pascal Siakam, a three-time All-Star and 2019 NBA champion.
Pascal Siakam, 30, is having one of his most productive seasons, averaging 20.8 points and 7.2 rebounds on a career-high 60.9% true shooting percentage. His ability to score at all three levels and thrive in transition makes him an excellent match for Luka Doncic and James. For the Pacers, dealing Pascal Siakam may signal a shift toward rebuilding, particularly if the front office believes the team has reached its peak as a mid-tier Eastern Conference contender.
The suggested trade would involve the Los Angeles Lakers sending Reaves, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, Shake Milton, and several first-round selections to the Pacers in exchange for Siakam. While parting ways with Reaves would be difficult, the opportunity to add a proven talent like Siakam may be too appealing for Pelinka to turn down.
"It would surely be hard to move on from their most consistent scorer, "one analyst noted, "but the Pacers' front office could figure that if the team won't rise higher than the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference throughout his tenure, it may be worth it to ship his $188 million contract away in favor of a brief re-tooling period."
Pascal Siakam's arrival would reinforce the Los Angeles Lakers' position as title favorites. His versatility and experience would fit well into head coach JJ Redick's system, which prioritizes agile, long wings to compliment the team's standout pair. With Siakam as a tertiary option, the Los Angeles Lakers would have one of the league's most formidable trios, greatly enhancing James' pursuit for a fifth championship.
