According to a recent speculation by Bleacher Report, the Los Angeles Lakers could be setting their sights on a major NBA offseason move by acquiring point guard Trae Young from the Atlanta Hawks.
In a proposed blockbuster trade, the Lakers would receive Young, while the Hawks would be compensated with Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and three future first-round picks (2025, 2029, and 2031) that are unprotected.
The strategic retention of their 2029 first-round pick at the trade deadline now positions the Lakers advantageously for pursuing a high-profile player like Young during the summer.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Young’s potential availability is fueled by the Hawks’ current trajectory and his approaching free agency in two years, presenting an opportunity for Rich Paul and Klutch Sports to orchestrate another client’s potential move to the Lakers.
The Lakers, who currently rank 18th in offensive rating at 114.6, need to bolster their scoring capabilities as they cannot depend indefinitely on LeBron James. Incorporating Young into a lineup featuring James, Anthony Davis, and proficient shooters is a move that could create one of the strongest starting fives in the NBA.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
This trade could proceed if the New Orleans Pelicans decide against taking the Lakers’ first-rounder in this year’s draft, currently projected at the 13th overall, enabling Los Angeles to trade their 2025, 2029, and 2031 picks.
For the Hawks, acquiring three unprotected first-round picks would represent a substantial beginning to a deal, mirroring the compensation the Utah Jazz secured from the Cleveland Cavaliers for Donovan Mitchell. With his average of 15.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 5.4 assists, Reaves is expected to fit into the starting lineup immediately alongside Dejounte Murray. Hachimura, with his 12.0 points per game and 40.1 percent 3-point shooting, would also be a challenge for a starting position.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Vincent’s role as a solid player and the young talent of 20-year-old Hood-Schifino would round out a robust return package for Young, indicating a potentially fruitful reshaping of the Hawks’ roster.
This speculative trade scenario underscores both teams’ potential directions as they navigate the offseason, with the Lakers aiming to enhance their championship aspirations and the Hawks looking to rebuild and capitalize on their assets.
