Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Kemba Walker and F Darius Bazley

OKC Thunder Receive: G Dennis Schroder, F Kyle Kuzma, and 2026 first-round pick

Instead of putting Montrezl Harrell in the deal again, the Lakers could insert Kyle Kuzma into the same deal from above that includes Dennis Schroder.

At the least, Los Angeles wouldn’t need to complete a sign-and-trade with Kuzma as he’s prepared to begin a new extension next season. With Kuzma added to the trade instead of Harrell, that could allow the Lakers to get a bit more in return, aside from Walker.

Lu Dort would be a possible target for Los Angeles, but Oklahoma City likely views him as a long-term piece for the franchise. While Darius Bazley is likely viewed in a similar manner, he would have a better chance of being traded than Dort.

READ MORE: NBA Rumors: Lakers named potential trade destination for Thunder’s Kemba Walker

Bazley would give the Lakers a backup forward behind James and Davis, along with a developmental player that could evolve into a formidable starter at some point.

A trade for Kemba Walker likely doesn’t get accepted unless the Lakers send Kuzma and a first-round pick as part of the agreement. Again, the Thunder could welcome Schroder back in the offseason to mentor Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is evolving into a star player. Kuzma would replace Bazley in the front court, and he could possibly reach his potential as a player if he were given an expanded role on a team.