The Los Angeles Lakers have already made major strides this summer, strengthening their roster after last season’s early playoff exit to the Minnesota Timberwolves. With Luka Dončić now leading the charge alongside LeBron James, the franchise has brought in Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and Jake LaRavia.Despite these upgrades, there’s still a sense that Los Angeles has room for one more blockbuster move – one that could elevate them from contenders to outright favorites.
Why a Proposal for Derrick White was made for the Los Angeles Lakers
Sports Illustrated’s Matt Brandon believes that move should be for Boston Celtics guard Derrick White, a $118 million NBA champion coming off one of the best seasons of his career.“If the Lakers can acquire Derrick White without giving up Austin Reaves, that’s a massive win,” Brandon wrote. “For L.A., this deal is about maximizing their win-now window with LeBron and Luka Dončić.”
Derrick White (Image via Getty)
Brandon highlights White’s elite perimeter defense and ability to play off the ball as a perfect fit next to Dončić, who excels when surrounded by secondary playmakers. White’s defensive presence would also help cover Dončić’s weaker spots on that end of the floor, giving the Los Angeles Lakers a more balanced, two-way identity.
Proposed Trade Details
Brandon’s suggested trade would require the Lakers to part with valuable assets, but he believes the payoff is worth it.
Proposed Trade
| Los Angeles Lakers Receive | Boston Celtics Receive |
| Derrick White | Rui Hachimura |
| Jordan Walsh | Dalton Knecht |
| Neemias Queta | Maxi Kleber |
| Two future first-round picks |
While such a move would slightly thin the Los Angeles Lakers’ wing depth, pairing White with Marcus Smart could make life miserable for opposing point guards. Both players are known for their intense on-ball defense and relentless competitive nature.
Why Derrick White Fits the Lakers’ Needs
Brandon points out that while Smart and White share defensive similarities, White brings a more polished offensive game – a key upgrade for Los Angeles. Last season with Boston, White posted:
Derrick White 2024-25 Season Stats
| Stat | Value |
| Points | 16.4 |
| Assists | 4.8 |
| Rebounds | 4.5 |
| Steals | 0.9 |
| FG% | 44.2% |
| 3P% | 38.4% |
With Jayson Tatum sidelined by a severe Achilles injury, White is expected to take on an even larger offensive role for Boston next season. However, Brandon suggests that the proposed package could be enough for the Celtics to consider parting ways with the 30-year-old guard.
The Bigger Picture for the Los Angeles Lakers
For the Los Angeles Lakers, this trade would be about making the most of their championship window with LeBron James still on the roster. Adding White’s championship experience, defensive tenacity, and shooting efficiency could give Los Angeles one of the league’s most formidable backcourts.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Proposal Could Bag $78 Million Sacramento Kings Star to Bolster Squad; Rui Hachimura Key Trade Asset?If the Lakers decide to pull the trigger, this could become one of the defining moves of the 2025 NBA offseason.