NBA Insiders Strongly Link Lakers To Trae Young In Trade Rumors

Following another NBA playoff disappointment against the Denver Nuggets, the Los Angeles Lakers are ramping up efforts to strengthen their roster this offseason.

Reports from The Athletic indicate that the Lakers are poised to adopt an aggressive stance in the trade market, eyeing Atlanta Hawks standout Trae Young as a potential acquisition.

Speculation surrounding the Lakers’ pursuit of a third star alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis has been swirling since the regular season. While Dejounte Murray was previously linked to the Lakers before the trade deadline, attention has now turned to Young.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks, LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers Updates

Young’s frequent link to the Lakers, in part because Klutch Sports represents him, positions him as a potential solution for the team’s playmaking needs. With his skill in directing the offense, Young could alleviate the pressure on James as the primary initiator.

However, any potential move for Young hinges on James’ future with the Lakers. James holds a player option valued at $51.4 million for next season, and while the team is receptive to discussions about his return, his intentions remain uncertain. Should he explore free agency, he could opt for a lucrative max deal worth $164 million over three years.

While the Hawks have previously rebuffed trade overtures for Young, speculation suggests that stance may shift this offseason. Sources have indicated to NBA Analysis Network that trade possibilities surrounding Young are growing legitimate as the offseason looms. Still, various executives around the league are concerned about how desirable Young is to play with, adding complexity to the potential trade market.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks, LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers Updates

In addition to the uncertainty surrounding James’ contract, the future of D’Angelo Russell with the Lakers also hangs in the balance. Russell possesses an $18.7 million player option for next season, which he is expected to decline, potentially prompting further roster adjustments for the Lakers.

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Grant Afseth

Grant Afseth is an NBA reporter for NBA Analysis Network and Dallas Mavericks reporter for DallasBasketball.com. He previously covered the Indiana Pacers and NBA for CNHI's Kokomo Tribune and various NBA teams for USA TODAY Sports Media Group. Follow him on Twitter (@grantafseth), Facebook (@grantgafseth), and YouTube (@grantafseth).

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