Lakers trade rumors: Luka Doncic could lose key teammate for the 2025-26 NBA season under one condition

The Los Angeles Lakers fell short of proving themselves as true contenders for the 2024-25 NBA championship. As the year progressed, head coach JJ Redick appeared to lack reliable role players to support his core rotation. To address that, the front office may look to make key additions to the roster. For that reason, Luka Doncic could be forced to part ways with one of his top offensive partners, but only under a specific condition.

“…The Lakers and the most important people in the organization all love Reaves and his journey from undrafted free agent to a talent that people think is All-Star caliber. And, at just $14 million next season, he’ll be one of the most productive players in the league per dollar… he’s not viewed as “untradeable”… But if the Lakers are going to trade him for a center, they’re going to want one that is foundationally important,” reported Dan Woike in L.A. Times.

After beginning the season as a role player, Austin Reaves finished the postseason as one of JJ Redick’s most valuable players. According to Dan’s report, any possibility of trading Reaves for a center has been ruled out, unless a superstar like Giannis Antetokounmpo becomes available.

Keeping Reaves would be an ideal scenario for both LeBron James and Luka Doncic, as he has proven to be their most reliable offensive partner. He contributes across the board with defense, playmaking, and consistent scoring, while seamlessly adapting to the playing styles of both stars. In his fourth NBA season, Reaves appeared in 73 games and averaged a career-high 20.2 points per game, cementing his breakout year as a key contributor.

Luka Doncic #77 and Lebron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers speak to an official during the second half against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center on April 8, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Lakers keeping Austin Reaves does not rule out roster moves for the 2025–26 NBA season

Rob Pelinka’s commitment to retaining Austin Reaves raises concerns among fans about the Lakers’ flexibility to improve for the 2025-26 season. Still, the team has made its top priority clear: finding a reliable center.

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To address that need, the front office is actively exploring options through trades, free agency, and the upcoming draft. As a result, a few names are already gaining traction.

According to Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times, the two leading candidates to fill the role are Daniel Gafford of the Dallas Mavericks and Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets. Daniel, in particular, appears to be a realistic target, especially following the reportedly arrival of Cooper Flagg to the Mavericks. His arrival could make Gafford expendable, opening the door for the Lakers to make a move.

Besides, Gafford is under contract for one more season at $14.3 million, a figure well within the Lakers’ budget. However, talks have yet to progress meaningfully. As a result, Los Angeles Lakers are expected to keep exploring additional targets in what could be a lengthy and eventful offseason.