The Los Angeles Lakers have long been a franchise synonymous with success, boasting a storied history and a commitment to building championship-caliber rosters. At the heart of their current lineup is Austin Reaves, a 27-year-old undrafted gem who has steadily risen to become the team’s No. 3 scoring option and a fan favorite. However, a bold trade proposal by Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz has sparked debate, suggesting the Lakers could part ways with Reaves in a deal that would send him to a Western Conference rival, the Minnesota Timberwolves. While intriguing, this idea seems more like a pipe dream than a realistic move for Los Angeles.
The Rise of Austin Reaves
Since going undrafted in 2021, Austin Reaves has defied the odds, carving out a significant role with one of the NBA’s most prestigious franchises. His journey from an overlooked prospect to a key contributor for the Lakers is a testament to his work ethic and versatility. Last season, Reaves averaged an impressive 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 37.7% from beyond the arc. His ability to handle the ball, create plays, and step up as a leader when stars like LeBron James or Anthony Davis are unavailable has made him indispensable.
Reaves’ growth has been a bright spot for the Lakers, especially as they navigate the challenges of building a contender around their aging superstar core. His contract, however, is a point of discussion. With a $14.9 million team option looming next summer, Reaves is likely to decline it and enter unrestricted free agency, potentially commanding a higher salary. This financial uncertainty has fueled speculation about his trade value, but moving him to a direct competitor like the Timberwolves feels like a stretch.
The Trade Proposal
Swartz’s trade idea centers on addressing the Minnesota Timberwolves’ need for a true franchise point guard to complement their young star, Anthony Edwards. The Timberwolves have experimented with players like Donte DiVincenzo in the role, but Swartz argues that Reaves, with his superior playmaking and scoring ability, would be a better fit. In Minnesota, Reaves could take on a larger role as a primary ball-handler, forming a dynamic backcourt with Edwards and bolstering the Timberwolves’ playoff aspirations.
For the Lakers, the trade would theoretically bring back a significant piece to strengthen their roster, with Swartz floating the names of Julius Randle or Rudy Gobert as potential targets. Randle, a former Laker and an offensive powerhouse, could add scoring and versatility to the frontcourt alongside Anthony Davis. Gobert, on the other hand, is a defensive juggernaut, widely regarded as a Tier 1-2 rim protector and shot-blocker. Either player could elevate the Lakers’ roster, but the cost of losing Reaves to a team that eliminated them from the playoffs last season would be steep.
Why This Trade Feels Unrealistic
While the idea of acquiring Randle or Gobert is enticing, the proposal hinges on several questionable assumptions. First, trading Reaves to a Western Conference rival like Minnesota would strengthen a team that already poses a significant threat to the Lakers’ postseason hopes. The Timberwolves, led by Edwards and bolstered by a strong supporting cast, knocked Los Angeles out of playoff contention last year. Handing them a player of Reaves’ caliber could further tilt the balance of power in the West, a move that seems counterintuitive for a franchise focused on immediate contention.
Second, Reaves’ value to the Lakers extends beyond his on-court production. His chemistry with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, coupled with his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations, makes him a cornerstone of the team’s identity. Trading him for a player like Randle, who overlaps with Davis in some skill sets, or Gobert, whose offensive limitations could clash with the Lakers’ spacing needs, feels like a lateral move at best. The Lakers would also need to consider the long-term financial implications, as both Randle and Gobert carry substantial contracts that could strain the team’s salary cap.
Finally, the emotional and strategic toll of trading a homegrown talent like Reaves cannot be understated. Fans have embraced him as a symbol of perseverance, and his departure would likely spark backlash. The Lakers’ front office, led by Rob Pelinka, has historically been cautious about blockbuster trades that don’t guarantee a significant upgrade. Unless Minnesota is willing to part with a true game-changer—and neither Randle nor Gobert fully fits that bill—this trade remains more fantasy than reality.
What’s Next for the Lakers?
The Lakers are at a crossroads, balancing the need to maximize LeBron James’ final years with the development of younger players like Reaves. While the idea of adding a player like Randle or Gobert is appealing, the cost of losing Reaves, both in terms of production and team morale, makes this proposal a tough sell. Los Angeles would be better served exploring other trade options or focusing on re-signing Reaves to a long-term deal that reflects his value.
For now, Lakers fans can continue to enjoy watching Reaves thrive in the purple and gold. His growth as a player and leader is a reminder that sometimes the best moves are the ones you don’t make. Trading him to a rival like the Timberwolves? That’s a plot twist even M. Night Shyamalan couldn’t dream up.