The NBA trade deadline has come and gone, and while the Los Angeles Lakers didn’t exactly light up the transaction wire with blockbuster moves, they did make a calculated addition to bolster their shooting. In a deal that sent guard Gabe Vincent and a 2032 second-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks, the Lakers acquired sharpshooter Luke Kennard, widely regarded as one of the league’s most efficient three-point threats. This swap addresses a key need for spacing around stars Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves, but it’s just the tip of the iceberg for what’s next in Lakerland.
According to team insider Dave McMenamin, this was the lone transaction before the buzzer, but the Lakers aren’t hitting the brakes. “The Vincent-Kennard swap is the lone transaction the Lakers completed before the deadline, sources said,” McMenamin posted on X. “Now L.A. is focused on evaluating its two-way spots and monitoring the buy-out market. The Lakers have one open roster spot, but could create another one by waiving a player.” With an open spot and potential for more, the Purple and Gold are poised to dive into the buyout market, where veterans often seek contender roles for a playoff push.
Lakers Eye Buyout Market for Immediate Impact
The buyout market is heating up, and the Lakers are positioned as a prime destination for players looking to chase rings. This year’s crop includes a mix of experienced guards and wings who could provide depth and veteran savvy. Based on reports from Bleacher Report and CBS Sports, here are the top candidates the Lakers might pursue:
| Player | Position | Current Status | Fit for Lakers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chris Paul | Point Guard | Expected buyout after trade from Clippers to Raptors | Could serve as a mentor and backup, though more likely in a coaching-like role given his age. |
| Mike Conley | Point Guard | Buyout candidate | Rumored to return to Timberwolves, but if not, his playmaking could complement Doncic. |
| Lonzo Ball | Point Guard | Buyout rumors | Linked to Hornets to join his brother, reducing Lakers’ chances. |
| DeMar DeRozan | Shooting Guard/Forward | Under contract, buyout unlikely due to salary | High-scoring wing, but financial hurdles make this a long shot. |
| Cam Thomas | Shooting Guard | Waived by Brooklyn Nets | Scoring punch off the bench; already in free agency and a strong fit for L.A.’s needs. |
| Khris Middleton | Small Forward | Uncertain future | Solid shooter who could add perimeter defense and scoring. |
Among these, Cam Thomas stands out as an immediate target. Sources tell ESPN that the Nets have waived the scoring guard, opening the door for him to join a contender like the Lakers. His ability to create shots could ignite the bench during the final stretch of the season. Meanwhile, Khris Middleton’s shooting prowess aligns perfectly with Kennard’s addition, potentially creating a deadly outside tandem.
But the Lakers aren’t stopping at buyouts. They’re also evaluating their two-way contracts for internal promotions. Current two-way players include Nick Smith Jr., Chris Manon, and Drew Timme. Insider Brett Siegel reports that Timme is a favorite: “Lakers may still make another small move to open up a roster spot. They like Drew Timme a lot.” Even LeBron James has sung his praises: “He’s a smart basketball player. He knows how to play the game. And his IQ correlates to this level. So it’s great to see that the coaches have believed in him.” Converting Timme could provide low-cost frontcourt depth without dipping into the market.
The Offseason Bombshell: Giannis Antetokounmpo in Purple and Gold?
While the buyout market offers short-term fixes, the real shocker comes from offseason rumors swirling around Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Though the Lakers weren’t in the deadline mix for the Greek Freak—per Shams Charania—they’re gearing up for a summer pursuit. With more cap flexibility and trade assets available post-season, L.A. could assemble a compelling package.
According to Jacob Rude, a potential deal might involve a sign-and-trade of Austin Reaves, three first-round picks, and significant cap relief for the Bucks to kickstart their rebuild. “One major appeal in the Lakers’ package will be the cap relief they can offer Milwaukee,” Rude wrote. “Does that mean Austin Reaves will be involved in a potential sign-and-trade? He’s certainly the best player the Bucks could get back, but it requires the Lakers to be willing to trade him and for Reaves to want to go to Milwaukee. With him, the Lakers would have the best trade package. Without him, it becomes much more of a debate.”
This move gains traction amid reports from Jake Fischer that the Lakers are prioritizing cap space to build around Doncic, especially with LeBron James potentially departing this summer. Pairing Giannis with Doncic could create an unstoppable duo, blending elite scoring, playmaking, and defense for a new era in Los Angeles. The Lakers’ history of landing superstars makes this far from fantasy—it’s a legitimate bombshell that could reshape the NBA landscape.
As the playoffs loom, the Lakers’ quiet deadline might just be the calm before the storm. With Kennard in the fold, buyout additions on the horizon, and a Giannis chase brewing, L.A. is far from done. Stay tuned; the Lake Show is about to get even more dramatic.