The Los Angeles Lakers are apparently mulling a huge offseason move that would see them trade young talent Austin Reaves for a proven NBA champion. According to Bleacher Report's Greg Swartz, the Lakers are expected to make a blockbuster trade with the Dallas Mavericks, sending Reaves and Jarred Vanderbilt to Dallas in exchange for Klay Thompson and Daniel Gafford.
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LA Lakers Eyeing a Move for Klay Thompson and Daniel Gafford
The suggested deal comes as the Mavericks confront a difficult time. Since moving Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this season, Dallas has struggled with injuries and inconsistent play. Kyrie Irving's ACL tear and Anthony Davis's absence since his debut game are a couple of injury setbacks that has put the squad in turmoil. With championship hopes dwindling, the Mavericks are looking to rebuild and retool their roster.
The Los Angeles Lakers would benefit from getting Klay Thompson, who is a dependable perimeter shooter. Klay Thompson, a four-time NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors, is well-known for his exceptional three-point shooting and championship pedigree. Pairing him with LeBron James and Anthony Davis might give the Lakers the firepower they need to challenge for another championship. Furthermore, Daniel Gafford would add much-needed depth to the center position, providing a defensive presence and familiarity with Doncic's play style.
On the other hand, the Mavericks would get Austin Reaves, who is having a breakout season with 19.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. Reaves' playmaking abilities would take some of the heat off Irving when he returns from injury. Jarred Vanderbilt, noted for his defensive versatility, would also help Dallas' frontcourt.
“Reaves is having the best season of his career and would help take playmaking pressure off of Kyrie Irving, who's now likely to miss the beginning of 2025-26 following a torn ACL,” Swartz wrote. “A starting five of Irving, Reaves, Naji Marshall, Anthony Davis, and Dereck Lively II would be younger, more athletic, and carry more offensive pop.”