The Los Angeles Lakers are in an excellent spot. They have a winning record despite LeBron James not playing. Luka Doncic looked like an MVP frontrunner before he went down with an injury, and Austin Reaves stepped up as the lone, healthy star.
Once the Lakers have Reaves, Doncic, and James all healthy, they could be the best team in the Western Conference. Of course, with two dominant ball handlers like James and Doncic on the floor, Reaves’ production will likely take a hit.
If James slots into a new role, the Lakers might be able to have success with their trio. If he’s unable or unwilling to do that, Los Angeles could have a tough choice on their hands.
GettyBOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – MARCH 08: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers checks on teammate LeBron James #23 after James collided with Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics during the second half at TD Garden on March 08, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Boston Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 111-101. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Los Angeles Lakers Have to Pick Between 2 Stars
Here we go. Fire up the trade machines, even though there are no credible reports that the Lakers want to shop a superstar. Reaves, an impending free agent, has increased his value significantly in recent games.
While other teams would line up to add him, the Lakers have no reason to shop him. Next summer, they should have ample cap space to re-sign him, even if he commands more money than initially thought.
However, the Lakers have been urged to pick between Reaves and James, since two stars next to Doncic might be spreading themselves too thin.
“It sounds crazy saying you gotta trade Bron, but my thing is when you have a guy like LeBron James, you’re not getting this from AR,” said Theo Pinson on the To the Baha podcast. “This gets neutralized when Bron comes back in November. You’re not getting 28 and 17 from AR.”
Will the Lakers get 28 points and 17 assists from Reaves on a regular basis even if James were out of the picture? Based on his recent play, maybe. However, James’ trade value has never been lower. He is yet to prove himself this season and is owed $52.6 million this season.
With trading James unlikely, the Lakers really have only one other option.
Los Angeles Lakers Should Capitalize on Trade Value
In recent weeks, James has done little to raise his trade value. Reaves, on the other hand, is one of the hottest commodities in the NBA.
The Lakers need to work tirelessly to build the best roster possible around Doncic. Reaves has proved that he can excel both with and without Doncic, which is great news for the Lakers.
Reaves is only 27 years old. He’s just entering his prime. He’s not an elite “young” player by any means, although he certainly has interest from rebuilding teams, especially if he were to pledge to re-sign with them.
Reaves is a great running mate next to Doncic. However, if he had to be included in a deal for someone like Lauri Markkanen or Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Lakers shouldn’t think twice. Not only are they both better defenders, but they are the type of player Doncic would be even better next to.
Entering the season, Reaves was the Lakers’ best trade chip. As the year goes on, his value has only skyrocketed.
Of course, despite Pinson thinking otherwise, the most likely path is the Lakers keeping their core together this season.
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