NBA Rumors: Lakers and Warriors reportedly eyeing guard from rival Western Conference team

With both teams focused on improving their rosters to boost their chances of contending in the Western Conference next NBA season, the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly interested in adding a guard.

Reports suggest Keon Ellis is a name drawing interest from both the Lakers and the Warriors as a potential piece to help navigate what is expected to be a demanding 2025–26 campaign. The Sacramento Kings guard has stood out primarily for his defensive abilities, particularly as a point-of-attack defender.

Last season, Ellis appeared in 80 of 82 games, starting in just 28. He averaged 24.4 minutes on the court, contributing 8.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. His most impressive stat came on defense, where he averaged 1.5 steals per game—ranking among the top 30 players in the league in that category.

According to Forbes‘ Evan Sidery, “the Warriors recently expressed interest in Keon Ellis.” However, talks have reportedly stalled, as Sacramento appears reluctant to part ways with the young guard. “The Kings have kept (Ellis) off limits in ongoing sign-and-trade negotiations involving Jonathan Kuminga.”

Sacramento Kings shooting guard Keon Ellis.

Sacramento’s proposal in talks with Golden State reportedly included Devin Carter and Dario Saric, along with multiple second-round picks—a package not considered sufficient to acquire the 22-year-old forward.

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Meanwhile, the Warriors continue to explore options to reinforce their roster, with a focus on acquiring both a big man and a guard. “My expectation is that one way or the other, the Warriors are going to end up with both (Al) Horford and (De’Anthony) Melton on their roster,” NBA insider Marc Stein said recently.

The Lakers’ chances of landing Keon Ellis are reportedly tied to a potential trade involving point guard Gabe Vincent and a 2032 second-round pick, according to the X account Mamba Forever. However, that move now seems less likely following the recent arrival of Marcus Smart, whose presence already marks a significant defensive upgrade for the Lakers.

In addition to Smart, the Lakers addressed a major need at center by acquiring Deandre Ayton this offseason. They’ve also added Jake LaRavia—most recently with the Sacramento Kings—and Adou Thiero, who was drafted by the Brooklyn Nets and later sent to Los Angeles as part of the Kevin Durant trade to the Houston Rockets.