Lakers Eyeing Blockbuster Trade for Sabonis: Could Austin Reaves Be on the Move?. The Los Angeles Lakers have already shaken up the NBA landscape this season with their monumental acquisition of Luka Dončić prior to the February 6 trade deadline. Since landing the former Dallas Mavericks superstar, the team has surged through the Western Conference standings, currently holding the No. 4 seed with a 40-23 record. However, there are rumblings that Lakers GM Rob Pelinka may not be done just yet.
As the franchise gears up for what could be a deep playoff push, Pelinka is reportedly exploring options to further bolster the team’s frontcourt depth. A potential trade scenario gaining traction involves a move for Sacramento Kings’ three-time All-Star big man, Domantas Sabonis. The deal would come at a significant cost, with the Lakers potentially parting ways with rising star Austin Reaves, along with Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, Shake Milton, and first-round draft assets.
Why Sabonis Makes Sense for the Lakers
At 28 years old, Sabonis has cemented himself as one of the most dominant and versatile frontcourt players in the league. This season, he’s averaging an impressive 19.5 points, 14.1 rebounds, and 6.2 assists while boasting a stellar 66.2% true shooting percentage. His skill set would complement the Lakers’ new dynamic core perfectly.
With Dončić and LeBron James orchestrating the offense, adding a high-IQ, playmaking center like Sabonis could elevate the Lakers into a legitimate championship favorite. He has often been considered the best passing big man in the league outside of three-time MVP Nikola Jokić, and his ability to facilitate from the post could seamlessly integrate into JJ Redick’s transition-heavy system.
The Cost of Losing Austin Reaves
While acquiring Sabonis would undoubtedly bolster the Lakers’ frontcourt, the idea of losing Austin Reaves is a tough pill to swallow. Reaves has been a key contributor, posting 18.8 points and 5.9 assists per game this season. His ability to score at all three levels, facilitate, and thrive in high-pressure moments has made him a fan favorite and an essential piece of the Lakers’ success.
The departure of Reaves would leave a significant gap in the backcourt. However, the Lakers appear willing to make a move of this magnitude if it means securing a dominant big to solidify their championship aspirations.
Does This Trade Make Sense for Sacramento?
For the Kings, the hypothetical swap presents both opportunities and challenges. While Reaves is an emerging star, Sacramento already has a crowded backcourt featuring Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Malik Monk. Adding another ball-dominant guard could create a logjam and complicate their roster dynamics.
Additionally, while Vanderbilt and Vincent offer valuable depth, replacing Sabonis’ unique skill set would be no easy feat. Sacramento would need to carefully evaluate whether parting ways with their star center makes sense in the long run.
Final Thoughts
As the Lakers continue their pursuit of a championship, the front office appears willing to make bold moves to enhance their roster. Sabonis could be the missing piece that transforms Los Angeles into an undisputed title contender, but the cost—losing Austin Reaves—could be steep.
While this trade remains purely speculative at this point, it raises an intriguing debate: Should the Lakers push all their chips in for another blockbuster deal, or is keeping Reaves the smarter long-term play? One thing is certain—Rob Pelinka and the Lakers’ front office will not shy away from making moves if they believe it strengthens their championship odds.
