NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers could acquire 9x All Star to form BIG 3 with Luka Doncic and LeBron James

The Los Angeles Lakers and Philadelphia 76ers are both at a crossroads this offseason, and a major trade could be brewing to address their respective needs. According to reports, the Lakers are considering a deal to acquire $211,584,940 million star Paul George from the 76ers in exchange for Austin Reaves and other assets.

Why the Los Angeles Lakers Are Exploring a Trade

After a disappointing first-round playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Los Angeles Lakers are under pressure to retool their roster. Despite adding Luka Doncic in a blockbuster move, the team still lacks the depth and cohesion needed for a championship run. LeBron James , now 40, remains elite, but his window for another title is closing fast.

One key issue is the fit between Doncic and Austin Reaves. Reaves, a skilled shot-creator, has seen his role shrink since Doncic’s arrival. The Los Angeles Lakers are now weighing whether moving him could bring in a better-fitting star.



As Colin Keane of the Sporting News notes: "The Lakers are reportedly exploring trades to retool their roster, aiming to maximize LeBron’s final years while setting up a future around Doncic."

Why the Philadelphia 76ers Might Move On from Paul George

The 76ers’ experiment with Paul George has been a disaster. After signing him to a four-year, $212 million deal last summer, George played just 41 games in 2024-25, averaging a career-low 16.1 points per game. His pairing with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey failed to deliver results, leaving Philadelphia in disarray.

With the team likely pivoting toward a rebuild around Maxey and rookie Jared McCain, shedding George’s massive contract makes sense.

The Proposed Trade

Here’s the reported trade framework according to Colin:

Los Angeles Lakers receive:

- Paul George

- Eric Gordon (expiring contract)

- 2025 No. 3 overall pick

Philadelphia 76ers receive:

- Austin Reaves

- Dalton Knecht

- Rui Hachimura (expiring)

- Dorian Finney-Smith (expiring)

Why the Los Angeles Lakers Would Do This Deal

- Paul George provides a proven third star alongside LeBron and Doncic.

- Eric Gordon adds reliable bench scoring.

- The No. 3 pick gives the Lakers a chance to draft a future star to pair with Doncic post-LeBron.

Why the Philadelphia 76ers Would Accept

- Austin Reaves is a dynamic guard who fits better with Maxey and McCain.

- Dalton Knecht offers upside as a young shooter.

- Expiring contracts (Hachimura, Finney-Smith) give Philly financial flexibility.

While the deal makes sense for both sides, the Lakers might hesitate to part with Reaves, a fan favorite with team-friendly contract terms. The 76ers, meanwhile, could demand more draft compensation if they’re giving up a top-three pick.

Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors could part ways with $100 million legend in 2-way trade with Los Angeles Lakers

This trade would be a high-risk, high-reward move for both franchises. The Lakers get a win-now star in George while securing a top draft pick for the future. The 76ers reset their roster with younger, more flexible pieces. If both sides are willing to take the gamble, this could be one of the biggest deals of the summer.