In a dramatic new trade proposal that’s making waves across the NBA world, the Los Angeles Lakers are predicted to part ways with franchise cornerstone LeBron James and rising star Austin Reaves in a blockbuster five-team deal. Originally floated by Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz, the deal imagines LeBron James finishing his career where it began — in Cleveland — while the Lakers reshape their roster around younger, defensive-minded players.(Disclaimer: The data and analysis in this post are based on conjecture as of right now. Although the information is based on reliable sources, it’s crucial to remember that these are not official declarations or verified actions. It is advised that readers use caution when interpreting this analysis and wait for official updates as the offseason progresses.)
The Proposed Trade: A Five-Team Shake-Up
The hypothetical deal suggested by Swartz is part of his piece titled “3 Trade Packages To Bring LeBron James Home to the Cleveland Cavaliers.” Of the three scenarios, this one stands out for its complexity and high-profile names.
Full Trade Breakdown
| Team | Receives |
| Cleveland Cavaliers | LeBron James, Austin Reaves, Walker Kessler, 2027 1st-round pick (lottery-protected via Miami), and $27.2 million in salary savings |
| Los Angeles Lakers | Lauri Markkanen, De’Andre Hunter, Max Strus |
| Utah Jazz | Darius Garland, Maxi Kleber |
| Charlotte Hornets | Jarrett Allen |
| Brooklyn Nets | Grant Williams, Jarred Vanderbilt, 2027 1st-round pick (top-2 protected via Dallas) |
This proposed trade shakes up rosters across five teams and addresses different franchise needs—from Cleveland’s desire for a LeBron homecoming to Brooklyn’s aim for long-term picks and depth.
What the Los Angeles Lakers Gain and Lose
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) shoots over Dallas Mavericks’ Anthony Davis (3) as Max Christie, left, and Austin Reaves, right, look on in the second half of an NBA basketball game in Dallas, Wednesday, April 9, 2025. (Image via AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
If the Los Angeles Lakers were to greenlight this deal, they’d be giving up not just LeBron James, but also their breakout guard Austin Reaves—arguably the second and third-best players on the current roster. The return? One All-Star forward and two premium role players.Incoming Players:– Lauri Markkanen: Former All-Star forward, averaged 18.2 points and 7.1 rebounds on 37% from three throughout his career.– De’Andre Hunter: A two-way forward who was putting up nearly 20 points per game before his move to Cleveland.– Max Strus: Known for his three-and-D prowess, fits perfectly in a modern defensive lineup.“Lauri Markkanen is a one-time All-Star, has more potential to grow, and is more clearly on the same timeline as Luka Doncic,” wrote Swartz in his breakdown.While the deal strips the Los Angeles Lakers of LeBron’s leadership and Reaves’ ascending talent, it compensates with youth, defense, and perimeter shooting—traits that align with current trends in team-building.
The Cavs Reunite with Their King
Bringing LeBron James back to Cleveland would be a full-circle moment in NBA history. After winning a title with the Cavaliers in 2016, a return for one last chapter would be an emotional high point for both the player and the franchise. With Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler added to the mix, the Cavs would deepen their rotation while LeBron provides veteran leadership and late-game poise.
The Reaves Factor Would Be A Costly Sacrifice
For Los Angeles Lakers fans, parting ways with Reaves might sting more than moving on from the aging LeBron. Reaves has grown into a reliable scoring option, averaging 20 points per game in just his fourth season. While he’s not the best defender, his offensive efficiency and steady development make him a key piece.Yet if the goal is to build a defensive-minded roster that can stretch the floor, this trade supports that vision—even if it’s painful in the short term.
Is the Trade Feasible?
While the proposed trade is loaded with logic and upside, the logistics of coordinating five teams remain a massive hurdle. Salary matching, team preferences, and player buy-in could complicate the framework. But for fans and analysts alike, it offers a fascinating glimpse at what a post-LeBron Lakers roster could look like.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors Predicted to Target $2,800,834 Miami Heat Center As Logical Backup Plan if Horford Deal Falls ThroughIf the Los Angeles Lakers are serious about pivoting away from the LeBron era and building a younger, more defensively versatile team, Swartz’s proposed mega-deal might just be worth considering.