After a disappointing first-round playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Los Angeles Lakers face tough decisions this offseason. The front office may explore trades to strengthen the roster around Luka Doncic and LeBron James . One potential move? A blockbuster swap sending Reaves to Memphis for sharpshooting guard Desmond Bane .
Why the Los Angeles Lakers Should Consider Trading Austin Reaves
The Los Angeles Lakers’ backcourt needs an upgrade, especially in scoring efficiency and defense. While Reaves is a solid playmaker, his role diminishes alongside two elite facilitators like Doncic and James.
Key reasons to trade Reaves (according NBA analyst Dean Simon):
- Redundant Playmaking: With Doncic and James handling most playmaking duties, Reaves’ skills aren’t fully utilized.
- Defensive Limitations: Reaves struggles against elite guards, while Bane has shown defensive growth.
- Need for Reliable Shooting: Desmond Bane’s elite three-point shooting (39.2% career) fits better alongside two ball-dominant stars.
As Dean Simon of the Sporting News notes in the original article: "Instead of trotting out another floor general that takes pick-and-roll possessions out of Doncic and James' hands, you replace that with a reactionary scorer that can knock down catch-and-shoot threes."
Why Desmond Bane is the Perfect Fit
Desmond Bane, who signed a $197 million extension with Memphis, has developed into one of the league’s most efficient scorers. His 2024-25 stats showcase his all-around growth:
Stat
2024-25 Performance
Beyond scoring, Desmond Bane’s improved playmaking (5.3 assists per game) and defense (113 defensive rating) make him an ideal third option. His ability to play off-ball and stretch the floor would give Doncic and James more spacing.
Proposed Trade Package
For this deal to work, the Los Angeles Lakers would likely need to include additional assets:
Lakers Receive:
- Desmond Bane
Grizzlies Receive:
- Austin Reaves
- Rui Hachimura
- Shake Milton
This trade gives Memphis a younger core piece in Reaves, while the Lakers get a proven scorer who fits their timeline.
How Bane Elevates the Lakers’ Title Chances
Adding Bane would address multiple weaknesses (according to Dean Simon):
- Elite Three-Point Shooting: Provides much-needed spacing for Doncic and James.
- Secondary Playmaking: Can initiate offense when needed.
- Defensive Upgrade: His size (6’5”) and improved steals (1.2 per game) help against elite guards.
With Bane, the Lakers could realistically compete in a stacked Western Conference. His ability to score efficiently without dominating the ball makes him an ideal fit alongside two superstars.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers could re-sign $18,001,011 Charlotte Hornets center, fixing Luka Doncic's biggest weakness after playoff disaster
If the Los Angeles Lakers want to maximize their championship window, trading Reaves for Bane is a move worth exploring. Memphis gets a promising young guard, while Los Angeles adds a polished scorer who complements their stars perfectly. As the offseason unfolds, this could be the deal that reshapes the Lakers’ future.
Why the Los Angeles Lakers Should Consider Trading Austin Reaves
The Los Angeles Lakers’ backcourt needs an upgrade, especially in scoring efficiency and defense. While Reaves is a solid playmaker, his role diminishes alongside two elite facilitators like Doncic and James.
Key reasons to trade Reaves (according NBA analyst Dean Simon):
- Redundant Playmaking: With Doncic and James handling most playmaking duties, Reaves’ skills aren’t fully utilized.
- Defensive Limitations: Reaves struggles against elite guards, while Bane has shown defensive growth.
- Need for Reliable Shooting: Desmond Bane’s elite three-point shooting (39.2% career) fits better alongside two ball-dominant stars.
As Dean Simon of the Sporting News notes in the original article: "Instead of trotting out another floor general that takes pick-and-roll possessions out of Doncic and James' hands, you replace that with a reactionary scorer that can knock down catch-and-shoot threes."
Why Desmond Bane is the Perfect Fit
Desmond Bane, who signed a $197 million extension with Memphis, has developed into one of the league’s most efficient scorers. His 2024-25 stats showcase his all-around growth:
Stat
2024-25 Performance
Beyond scoring, Desmond Bane’s improved playmaking (5.3 assists per game) and defense (113 defensive rating) make him an ideal third option. His ability to play off-ball and stretch the floor would give Doncic and James more spacing.
Proposed Trade Package
For this deal to work, the Los Angeles Lakers would likely need to include additional assets:
Lakers Receive:
- Desmond Bane
Grizzlies Receive:
- Austin Reaves
- Rui Hachimura
- Shake Milton
This trade gives Memphis a younger core piece in Reaves, while the Lakers get a proven scorer who fits their timeline.
How Bane Elevates the Lakers’ Title Chances
Adding Bane would address multiple weaknesses (according to Dean Simon):
- Elite Three-Point Shooting: Provides much-needed spacing for Doncic and James.
- Secondary Playmaking: Can initiate offense when needed.
- Defensive Upgrade: His size (6’5”) and improved steals (1.2 per game) help against elite guards.
With Bane, the Lakers could realistically compete in a stacked Western Conference. His ability to score efficiently without dominating the ball makes him an ideal fit alongside two superstars.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers could re-sign $18,001,011 Charlotte Hornets center, fixing Luka Doncic's biggest weakness after playoff disaster
If the Los Angeles Lakers want to maximize their championship window, trading Reaves for Bane is a move worth exploring. Memphis gets a promising young guard, while Los Angeles adds a polished scorer who complements their stars perfectly. As the offseason unfolds, this could be the deal that reshapes the Lakers’ future.
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