The Los Angeles Lakers before the last NBA trade deadline, with LeBron James reportedly endorsing a possible trade for multiple star players, but a deal didn’t transpire.
According to The Athletic, James supported the Lakers’ pursuit of either Dejounte Murray or Zach LaVine, both represented by Klutch Sports, in the lead-up to the trade deadline.
“James was also in support of the Lakers trading for Dejounte Murray or Zach LaVine — two Klutch Sports clients — in the weeks and months leading into the 2024 trade deadline, according to those sources,” The Athletic wrote.
James, who has significant influence within the Lakers’ organization, previously played a role in acquiring Russell Westbrook in 2022 and has advocated for reuniting with Kyrie Irving.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers, Dejounte Murray, Zach LaVine Updates
The Chicago Bulls had been exploring trade options for LaVine for months, as reported by NBC Sports Chicago, but no deal materialized by the February 9 deadline. Factors such as LaVine’s season-ending foot surgery, his max contract, and the Bulls’ high asking price likely contributed to this.
Speculation about the potential trade package the Bulls might have received from the Lakers included players like Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and a future first-round pick, though the likelihood of the Lakers parting with Reaves was questioned. LaVine is not a primary offseason target for the Lakers, focusing instead on other players like Donovan Mitchell, Trae Young, and Irving.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers, Dejounte Murray, Zach LaVine Updates
The Bulls plan to explore trade options for LaVine again this offseason as they make key decisions regarding their roster, including the futures of DeMar DeRozan and Patrick Williams.
There were attempts by the Golden State Warriors to engage the Lakers in talks about LeBron James through their connection with Klutch Sports and Draymond Green, though those discussions did not progress.
James remains a name to watch, with how the Lakers finish the season being an important factor in a possible decision. Los Angeles will need to display the capability to contend.
