The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly exploring a bold trade that would send fan-favorite Austin Reaves to the Utah Jazz in exchange for a package centered around the No. 5 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. The proposed deal has sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some seeing it as a necessary move to balance the roster while others view it as a risky gamble.
According to Colin Keane of the Sporting News, the Los Angeles Lakers see Reaves as “redundant alongside Dončić,” making him expendable in a deal that could bring in much-needed frontcourt help. The trade would allow LA to draft Duke’s Khaman Maluach, a 7’2″ center who could immediately contribute as a rim-runner and rebounder alongside LeBron James and Luka Dončić
Khaman Maluach: An 18-year-old athletic big man with NBA-ready skills developed at Duke. His ability to catch lobs, defend the rim, and rebound would fill a glaring need for the Lakers
Jordan Clarkson: A former Sixth Man of the Year who could bolster LA’s bench scoring. His expiring contract also provides future financial flexibility
Kyle Filipowski: A depth piece who adds frontcourt versatility but is considered more of a secondary asset in this trade.
Addressing Roster Imbalance – With Reaves seen as overlapping with Dončić’s playmaking, moving him for a true center like Maluach could optimize the lineup.
2. Short-Term and Long-Term Gains – Clarkson provides immediate scoring punch, while Maluach offers long-term upside as a defensive anchor.
3. Financial Flexibility – Clarkson’s expiring deal allows the Lakers to reassess their roster needs in the 2026 offseason.
