The NBA offseason has been buzzing with trade rumors, and two teams at the center of the speculation are the Los Angeles Lakers and the New York Knicks. As both franchises look to bolster their rosters for a championship push, a trade idea floated by TWSN’s Marissa Myers at the end of August has resurfaced: the Knicks potentially trading versatile forward Josh Hart to the Lakers. With Hart’s impressive stat line of 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game in 37.6 minutes during the 2024-2025 season, this proposal has sparked heated discussions. Let’s revisit this trade idea, evaluate its feasibility, and analyze whether it makes sense for either team as the 2025-2026 season looms.
The Trade Proposal: Josh Hart to the Lakers
The trade rumor hinges on the Knicks parting ways with Josh Hart, a gritty, do-it-all wing known for his relentless hustle and exceptional rebounding for his position. Myers suggested that Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau, known for shaping rosters to fit his system, might be open to moving Hart for the right package. For the Lakers, Hart’s defensive tenacity and versatility could be the missing piece alongside superstars LeBron James and Luka Doncic, creating a balanced roster capable of contending in the Western Conference.
However, executing this trade is no simple task. To make the salaries work, the Lakers would likely need to include either Austin Reaves or rookie Dalton Knecht. Reaves, with his higher salary, is the more practical option for matching Hart’s contract. Yet, both players are valuable assets for Los Angeles, and parting with either could limit future roster flexibility. Additionally, the Knicks would likely demand draft picks, further complicating the deal. Given these constraints, the Lakers might hesitate, as their primary need lies in upgrading their frontcourt, particularly with Rui Hachimura and Deandre Ayton as current starters.
Does Josh Hart Fit in Los Angeles?
There’s no denying that Hart would be a fantastic addition to the Lakers. His defensive prowess, ability to guard multiple positions, and relentless rebounding (9.6 rebounds per game as a 6’4” wing) would complement LeBron James and Luka Doncic’s offensive firepower. Hart’s playmaking (5.9 assists per game) and hustle make him an ideal role player for a contending team. His ability to thrive in high-pressure situations, as demonstrated during his time with the Knicks, would mesh well with the Lakers’ championship aspirations.
However, the cost of acquiring Hart is a significant hurdle. Trading Reaves or Knecht, both of whom have shown promise, could weaken the Lakers’ backcourt depth. Reaves, in particular, has emerged as a reliable two-way guard, while Knecht, a highly touted rookie, represents future potential. Furthermore, including draft picks in the deal could limit the Lakers’ ability to address their frontcourt concerns later. With Rui Hachimura and Deandre Ayton currently anchoring the starting frontcourt, the Lakers might prioritize acquiring a more traditional big man over a wing like Hart.
Knicks’ Perspective: Why Trade Hart?
For the Knicks, trading Hart seems counterintuitive. New York is coming off a strong season and holds the fourth-best odds to win the 2025-2026 NBA Finals at +1000, per FanDuel, just ahead of the Lakers at +1500. Hart has been a cornerstone of their success, providing toughness, versatility, and leadership. His rebounding numbers are particularly impressive for a wing, and his ability to contribute across the stat sheet makes him a valuable asset in Thibodeau’s system.
Moreover, the Knicks are in direct competition with the Lakers for playoff positioning and would be reluctant to strengthen a rival. Trading Hart to Los Angeles could backfire, especially if he thrives alongside LeBron and Doncic. Even if Hart was sidelined briefly by a preseason back injury, his day-to-day status suggests he’s ready to contribute, and his trade value remains intact. Unless the Knicks receive an overwhelming offer—potentially including Reaves and significant draft capital—it’s hard to see them parting ways with Hart.
Why This Deal Seems Unlikely
While the idea of Hart reuniting with the Lakers (where he briefly played in the 2021-2022 season) is appealing to fans, several factors make this trade improbable. First, the salary-matching constraints and the Lakers’ reluctance to part with Reaves or Knecht create logistical challenges. Second, the Knicks have little incentive to help a direct competitor, especially when they’re projected to be neck-and-neck in the championship race. Finally, the Lakers’ more pressing need to upgrade their frontcourt suggests they might prioritize other trade targets over Hart.
Josh Hart’s Value: By the Numbers
Hart’s 2024-2025 season stats highlight why he’s such an intriguing trade candidate:
-
Points per game: 13.6
-
Rebounds per game: 9.6
-
Assists per game: 5.9
-
Minutes per game: 37.6
His rebounding stands out as elite for a wing, and his ability to contribute in multiple areas makes him a perfect fit for teams looking to add a high-energy, two-way player. However, these same qualities make him invaluable to the Knicks, further diminishing the likelihood of a trade.
Looking Ahead: Big Moves on the Horizon?
Both the Lakers and Knicks remain active in the trade market, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see either team make a significant move before the 2025-2026 trade deadline. However, a Josh Hart trade to Los Angeles seems like a long shot. The Lakers are more likely to pursue a frontcourt upgrade, while the Knicks will aim to build around their core, including Hart, to maintain their edge in the Eastern Conference.
In conclusion, while the idea of Josh Hart “throwing a punch” for the Lakers is an exciting narrative, the trade’s complexity and the teams’ competing interests make it an unlikely scenario. Fans should keep their eyes peeled for other blockbuster deals, but for now, Hart appears destined to stay in New York.