Following a painful exit from the playoffs, losing to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round, the LA Lakers are expected to take their time during the offseason and make a significant effort to bring new talent to the squad. The Lakers had a decent regular season, but their defensive frailties ultimately cost them, leading to their eventual elimination. As the Lakers are sure to make new recruitments, the rumor mill is rife with names the franchise could pursue. Subsequently, let’s take note of a new entry to the mix.
As per a rumor, the Los Angeles Lakers can enter a deal which may look as follows: Bam Adebayo to the Lakers, Kristaps Porzingis and Cam Johnson to the Heat, Keldon Johnson and a first-round pick to the Celtics, and Reaves, Duncan Robinson, Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, plus a 2031 unprotected Lakers pick to the Brooklyn Nets. While complicated, the trade clears the path for Los Angeles to form a trio of LeBron, Luka Doncic, and Adebayo — a blend of experience, playmaking, and elite two-way potential.
Bam Adebayo, 27, has had a splendid season with the Miami Heat. He averaged 18.1 points, 9.6 rebounds, and nearly a block per game while shooting 48.5% from the field. Known for providing defensive solidarity and aptness in offence, Adebayo possesses impressive versatility which could appeal to the Lakers as they are searching for someone who could render them services from all ends. Adebayo would provide the kind of rim protection and perimeter switching the Lakers sorely lacked during their early playoff exit in 2025.
In order to secure Adebayo, the Lakers might have to let fan-favourite Austin Reaves off the hook. With LeBron James in the twilight of his career, and Luka Doncic in the peak of his powers, the timing cannot be right for the Lakers to take the gamble on Adebayo and make the trade happen.
