In a stunning trade proposal that could reshape the NBA, Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley has suggested a blockbuster deal between the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks that would see fan-favorite Austin Reaves and a 2031 first-round pick head to Dallas in exchange for Dereck Lively II and Caleb Martin. This trade, if executed, would send shockwaves through the league, altering the trajectories of both franchises and potentially redefining the Western Conference hierarchy.
The Trade Breakdown
Los Angeles Lakers Receive:
-
Dereck Lively II: A young, athletic center with cornerstone potential on defense and established chemistry with Luka Dončić.
-
Caleb Martin: A reliable, two-way wing known for his postseason prowess and versatility.
Dallas Mavericks Receive:
-
Austin Reaves: A rising star guard with a proven track record as a scorer and playmaker.
-
2031 First-Round Pick: A valuable future asset for Dallas to bolster their roster down the line.
Why the Lakers Might Consider It
Austin Reaves, the 27-year-old undrafted guard out of Oklahoma, has become a cornerstone for the Lakers since signing a four-year, $53.8 million contract in July 2023. Last season, he averaged an impressive 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.3 blocks in 73 games, shooting 46.0% from the field, 37.7% from three, and 87.7% from the free-throw line. Despite his stellar play, the Lakers’ disappointing first-round exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2025 playoffs—despite having Luka Dončić, LeBron James, Reaves, and home-court advantage—has raised questions about the team’s roster construction.
Reaves, who played through a serious toe injury in the playoffs (averaging 16.2 points on 41.1% shooting), is expected to decline his 2026-27 player option worth $14.9 million to pursue a larger contract next summer. Buckley argues that instead of committing to a pricey extension, the Lakers could capitalize on Reaves’ value now by acquiring two high-upside players in Lively and Martin.
Dereck Lively II, a 21-year-old center, has already shown flashes of brilliance as a rim-protecting, lob-catching big man who complements star players like Dončić. His defensive instincts and athleticism could address the Lakers’ need for a long-term solution at center, especially alongside Deandre Ayton. Caleb Martin, meanwhile, brings playoff-tested grit, shooting, and defensive versatility, making him an ideal role player to support LeBron James and Dončić.
Why Dallas Would Want Reaves
For the Mavericks, acquiring Austin Reaves would be a coup. After missing the playoffs last season following their 2024 NBA Finals run, Dallas is in desperate need of a spark. The blockbuster trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Lakers for Anthony Davis and Max Christie in February left the Mavericks rebuilding around young talent and future assets. Reaves, with his 14.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.3 assists career averages, could step into a starring role as a primary scorer and playmaker. His ability to create his own shot and facilitate would give Dallas a dynamic backcourt presence, while the 2031 first-round pick adds long-term flexibility.
The Ripple Effects on the NBA
This trade would have seismic implications for the NBA landscape:
-
Lakers’ Defensive Upgrade: Adding Lively and Martin would bolster the Lakers’ defense, which faltered in their playoff loss to Minnesota. Lively’s rim protection and Martin’s perimeter defense could make Los Angeles a more balanced team, capable of competing with elite Western Conference foes like the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder.
-
Mavericks’ New Star: Reaves’ arrival in Dallas would signal a shift toward a younger, guard-driven core. His ability to thrive in high-pressure situations, as evidenced by his playoff performances, could help the Mavericks return to contention sooner than expected.
-
Western Conference Power Shift: The Lakers, with Dončić, James, Ayton, Lively, and Martin, would solidify their status as a championship contender. Meanwhile, Dallas’ acquisition of Reaves and a future pick could accelerate their rebuild, potentially making them a dark horse in the West.
-
Reaves’ Legacy: A move to Dallas would give Reaves a chance to step out of the shadows of Dončić and James and become a franchise cornerstone. However, it would also mark the end of his inspiring journey with the Lakers, where he went from an undrafted free agent to a beloved starter.
The Risks and Challenges
For the Lakers, trading Reaves—a proven performer and fan favorite—carries significant risk. His chemistry with Dončić and James has been a bright spot, and his departure could disrupt the team’s offensive flow. Additionally, Lively, while promising, is still developing, and Martin, though reliable, lacks Reaves’ upside as a primary creator.
For Dallas, the trade hinges on Reaves’ ability to lead a franchise. While his stats suggest he’s ready for a bigger role, the pressure of being “the guy” in a new market could be daunting. The 2031 pick is a gamble, as its value depends on the Lakers’ future performance.
Conclusion
Zach Buckley’s proposed trade is a bold, landscape-altering move that would reshape both the Lakers and Mavericks. For Los Angeles, it’s a chance to double down on defense and depth while moving on from a rising star. For Dallas, it’s an opportunity to acquire a young, dynamic guard and a valuable future asset. Whether this blockbuster deal comes to fruition remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: if Austin Reaves is traded to Dallas, the NBA will feel the aftershocks for years to come.