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In a stunning twist that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly poised to make a bold move in the 2025 free agency, targeting Minnesota Timberwolves’ standout center Naz Reid. The 2023-24 NBA Sixth Man of the Year has emerged as a top priority for the Lakers, who are looking to bolster their frontcourt and elevate their championship aspirations alongside superstars LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
Reid’s Rise to Stardom
Naz Reid, a 6’9” forward/center, has been a revelation for the Timberwolves since going undrafted in 2019. Over the past six seasons, Reid has transformed from a two-way contract player into one of the league’s most impactful bench players. His breakout 2023-24 season, where he averaged 13.5 points and 5.2 rebounds while shooting 41.4% from three-point range, earned him the prestigious Sixth Man of the Year award. This season, Reid has taken his game to new heights, averaging a career-high 14.2 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists across 80 regular-season games, with 11 starts showcasing his ability to shine in a starting role (20.3 points, 9.1 rebounds per game as a starter).
The Warriors are the favorites to land Naz Reid, per @BovadaOfficial
Golden State Warriors +175
Brooklyn Nets +220
Charlotte Hornets +285
Los Angeles Lakers +375
Toronto Raptors +525 pic.twitter.com/nf3KDQIRyH— GSW Ball Report (@GSWBallReport) June 1, 2025
Reid’s versatility as a stretch big, capable of scoring inside and out, makes him an ideal fit for modern NBA offenses. His ability to space the floor, combined with his rebounding and playmaking, has made him a fan favorite in Minnesota and a coveted asset across the league.
Why the Lakers Want Reid
The Lakers’ interest in Reid comes as no surprise given their ongoing search for a reliable big man to complement Anthony Davis. After a rescinded trade for Charlotte’s Mark Williams and a short-term signing of Alex Len, Los Angeles has yet to find a long-term solution in the frontcourt. Reid’s skill set addresses this need perfectly. His ability to stretch the floor with 45.1% three-point shooting in his starts this season would create space for LeBron James and Luka Doncic to operate, while his rebounding and defensive versatility would provide balance to the Lakers’ lineup.
According to Svyatoslav Rovenchuk of FanSided, “Reid could be the best option of the bunch [in free agency], excluding Myles Turner.” The Lakers see Reid not just as a backup but as a potential starter alongside Davis, forming a formidable frontcourt duo. With LeBron James entering the twilight of his career and Doncic in his prime, adding a player of Reid’s caliber could be the key to pushing the Lakers back into NBA Finals contention.
Timberwolves’ Financial Dilemma
The Timberwolves, despite their desire to retain Reid, face significant financial constraints. With a luxury-tax bill looming and key players like Julius Randle ($30.9 million player option) and Nickeil Alexander-Walker also hitting free agency, Minnesota may struggle to keep their core intact. Reid, who has a $15 million player option for the 2025-26 season, is expected to opt out in search of a richer contract, potentially in the range of $20-30 million annually, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks.
The Timberwolves’ recent struggles, sitting at 41-32 and eighth in the Western Conference, add further complexity. Trading Karl-Anthony Towns to the New York Knicks before the season was a cost-cutting move, but it hasn’t fully alleviated their financial burden. If Minnesota cannot offer Reid the salary he seeks, a sign-and-trade could be on the table, with the Lakers emerging as a prime destination.
Lakers’ Challenges and Opportunities
Securing Reid won’t be easy for the Lakers, who face their own cap space limitations heading into the 2025 offseason. A sign-and-trade may be necessary, requiring creative maneuvering by general manager Rob Pelinka. However, the allure of playing in Los Angeles, alongside two of the game’s biggest stars, could sway Reid. As one NBA fan tweeted, “Welcome to LeBroncic Naz,” highlighting the excitement around the potential fit with James and Doncic.
Reid’s addition would address a critical need for the Lakers, who are looking to capitalize on their new-look roster under head coach JJ Redick. With Jaxson Hayes currently serving as a serviceable but limited center, Reid’s scoring prowess and versatility could elevate the team’s ceiling, making them a legitimate threat in the Western Conference.
The Road Ahead
As the 2025 NBA free agency approaches, all eyes will be on Naz Reid’s decision. While Timberwolves fans hope to keep their beloved “Big Jelly,” the Lakers’ championship pedigree and star power may prove too tempting to resist. If the Lakers can navigate the financial hurdles and secure Reid, they could form a powerful trio with James and Doncic, positioning themselves as serious contenders for the 2025-26 NBA title.
The NBA offseason is shaping up to be a blockbuster, and Naz Reid’s potential move to Los Angeles could be the biggest shock yet. Stay tuned as this saga unfolds, with the Lakers ready to unleash their new weapon in the quest for glory.