Lakers Could Be Forced to Trade ‘Virtually Untouchable’ Fan Favorite

Lakers Could Be Forced to Trade ‘Virtually Untouchable’ Fan Favorite: What It Means for the Team

The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in a pivotal season with championship aspirations and pressure to make the most of the remaining prime years of their superstar, LeBron James. In this context, rumors have circulated that the Lakers may consider trading a player previously deemed “virtually untouchable” if it could solidify their contender status. This speculation has naturally sparked considerable debate, especially since the Lakers’ roster currently features several fan favorites who have won over fans and the organization alike.

If the Lakers do make such a trade, it would signify a bold and perhaps controversial move, but it also underscores the team’s win-now mentality. Here’s a look at why this rumor has emerged, which player might be involved, and what it means for the Lakers’ season and future.

Lakers’ Current Roster Situation and Title Aspirations

After an underwhelming start last season, the Lakers made a remarkable turnaround, reaching the Western Conference Finals and raising expectations for the 2023-24 campaign. This offseason, they focused on retaining key players and acquiring depth, adding players like Gabe Vincent, Taurean Prince, and Jaxson Hayes to support stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis. With these moves, the Lakers seem to have struck a balance between their veteran leadership and a supporting cast of younger talent.

However, with LeBron turning 39 this season and the team facing a competitive Western Conference, the Lakers are under immense pressure to maximize their chances of a title while LeBron remains an impact player. While their offseason moves were commendable, some analysts argue the Lakers could still benefit from one more significant upgrade, potentially involving a trade. This is where the idea of moving a “virtually untouchable” player comes into play.

Who Could Be the “Untouchable” Fan Favorite?

In discussions of who might be on the trading block, names like Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and D’Angelo Russell often come up. However, Austin Reaves has particularly caught attention as a player the Lakers might reluctantly consider trading. Reaves, who went undrafted in 2021, quickly earned fan-favorite status with his gritty play, shooting ability, and high basketball IQ. Last season, he averaged 13 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists per game, proving to be a versatile asset capable of stepping up in high-stakes moments.

The Lakers rewarded Reaves with a four-year, $56 million contract extension this offseason, indicating their commitment to his development. He’s also gained international recognition, representing Team USA in the FIBA World Cup, where he showcased his skills on a global stage. This has only increased his value around the league, making him a highly desirable trade asset.

For the Lakers, Reaves embodies the kind of player who complements stars like LeBron and AD without needing the spotlight, making him “virtually untouchable.” However, if the Lakers decide they need an established third star or a defensive powerhouse to solidify their title chances, they might be forced to consider moving Reaves in exchange for a proven All-Star.

Why Trading Reaves Could Be a Tough Decision

1. **Fan Appeal**: Reaves has won the hearts of Lakers fans. His gritty style, team-first mentality, and underdog background resonate with fans who have watched him rise from an undrafted player to a key Lakers contributor. Trading Reaves would be unpopular and could risk alienating a portion of the fan base.

2. **Chemistry with Stars**: Reaves has developed strong on-court chemistry with both LeBron James and Anthony Davis. His willingness to play within the system and his ability to make smart decisions on the floor make him a perfect fit alongside two superstar talents. Moving him could disrupt that chemistry and force the Lakers to recalibrate.

3. **Future Development**: Reaves is only 25 and is still improving. The Lakers, like many teams, value young players who can grow alongside their stars. With Reaves showing potential to elevate his game further, the Lakers risk losing out on a rising star who could be part of their long-term plans, especially as they think about the post-LeBron era.

4. **Value Contract**: The four-year, $56 million deal for Reaves is considered a steal in today’s market. For a player of his impact, Reaves provides a high level of production without consuming a large portion of the salary cap. This cap-friendly contract allows the Lakers to maintain flexibility while keeping an effective role player, making a trade feel like an economic loss.

### Potential Trade Scenarios and Suitors for Reaves

Should the Lakers explore trade options, there are several players who could interest them if they’re willing to part with Reaves. Here are a few potential scenarios:

1. **Zach LaVine (Chicago Bulls)**: A proven scorer with a strong perimeter game, LaVine could give the Lakers the third scoring option they need. The Bulls have struggled to reach their full potential with their current roster and might be open to a rebuild. However, LaVine’s hefty contract could complicate the logistics.

2. **Buddy Hield (Indiana Pacers)**: Hield is known for his shooting prowess and would provide the Lakers with reliable three-point shooting, which is always valuable alongside LeBron. However, Hield doesn’t have the same defensive versatility as Reaves, so the Lakers would need to consider the trade-off.

3. **OG Anunoby (Toronto Raptors)**: A defensive standout with solid three-point shooting ability, Anunoby would elevate the Lakers’ perimeter defense. His skill set aligns well with the Lakers’ defensive schemes, and his contract could fit if the Raptors enter a rebuilding phase. Anunoby’s ability to guard multiple positions could help relieve some pressure off Davis, allowing the Lakers to play a more dynamic defensive style.

4. **Pascal Siakam (Toronto Raptors)**: Siakam’s versatility on both ends of the court would make him an intriguing fit. He could relieve Davis from some frontcourt duties and provides a scoring boost. Siakam’s presence would solidify the Lakers’ interior and exterior defense, but he would come at a high trade cost, potentially involving both Reaves and additional assets.

Implications of Trading Reaves for the Lakers

A trade involving Reaves would have immediate and long-term consequences. In the short term, a trade could give the Lakers a boost if they secure a player who can produce consistently in the playoffs. It would also signal the front office’s commitment to maximizing the current roster around LeBron and AD for a title run.

However, in the long term, trading Reaves means parting with a young asset on an affordable contract. If the Lakers trade him for an older player, they risk putting themselves in a tough position once LeBron inevitably retires. Reaves could be part of the Lakers’ future core in a post-LeBron era, making his departure a gamble.

Conclusion: To Trade or Not to Trade?

The Lakers are in a unique position, balancing championship aspirations with the future stability of the franchise. Trading a fan favorite like Austin Reaves would be a difficult decision, not just for the team but for fans who have embraced him as a symbol of resilience and dedication. However, the Lakers’ championship window with LeBron is finite, and moves that improve their immediate chances will always be considered.

Ultimately, if the Lakers do decide to pursue a trade, it would underscore their “win-now” mentality and willingness to make bold choices. While parting with Reaves might hurt in the short term, a deal bringing back a proven third star or high-impact player could pay dividends in the playoffs. For now, the Lakers and their fans will have to wait and see if this rumor becomes a reality and if the Lakers’ quest for a title pushes them to make a difficult call on a beloved player.