The Los Angeles Lakers are once again the subject of major offseason buzz — this time centered around Austin Reaves, one of the team’s brightest young stars. While Reaves played a pivotal role for the Lakers during the 2024–25 season, finishing as the third option behind LeBron James and Anthony Davis, trade talks have started swirling around his future with the team.
According to Los Angeles Times reporter Dan Woike, the Lakers aren’t in a hurry to move Reaves — unless an irresistible offer lands on their desk. “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,” Woike wrote. The Lakers reportedly have eyes on elite centers like Nic Claxton and Daniel Gafford, but neither is currently available.
However, Fadeaway World proposed a daring three-team trade that could shake up the league. In the mock scenario, the Lakers would send out Austin Reaves and Dorian Finney-Smith (via sign-and-trade) while acquiring Andrew Wiggins from the Warriors and Kel’el Ware from the Heat. The proposal notes that this would give the Lakers a serious upgrade in both experience and youth.
“By parting with Austin Reaves and Dorian Finney-Smith… the Lakers can make a strategic move to enhance their championship aspirations,” the proposal stated. It also notes that if Reaves is aiming for a new contract worth upwards of $200 million, L.A. may opt to move him while his value is high.
The addition of Wiggins could be significant. Despite a dip in performance after a midseason move to the Miami Heat in the Jimmy Butler deal, Wiggins still posted solid numbers — averaging 19 points per game on 45.8% shooting from the field and 36% from deep.
What’s even more intriguing is the potential arrival of 7-foot rookie Kel’el Ware. Only 21 years old, Ware had an impressive first season, averaging 9.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and displaying a promising perimeter shot by hitting over 30% of his three-point attempts. His youth, size, and versatility make him a highly coveted piece for a Lakers team lacking a dynamic big man.
While the Heat might be reluctant to give up Ware, the Lakers appear keen on making a bold move — and Reaves could be the key to unlocking that deal.
