As the NBA landscape shifts dramatically each offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers have once again shaken the league — this time by bringing Luka Dončić to L.A. With LeBron James nearing the end of his legendary career and Dončić now poised to carry the torch, fans and analysts alike are wondering what the next move is for this powerhouse franchise. One name that’s been floated in trade discussions? Austin Reaves — the Lakers’ rising star guard.
If L.A. decides to move Reaves to build an even better supporting cast around Luka, who could be the ideal co-star to pair with the Slovenian sensation as the team transitions into a post-LeBron era?
Let’s break it down.
Why Luka Needs a Specific Type of Co-Star
Luka Dončić is a ball-dominant maestro. His elite passing, shot creation, and control of tempo make him one of the most unguardable players in the league. But to thrive, he needs a co-star who:
Can play off the ball
Defend at a high level
Create their own shot when needed
Doesn’t need the ball to be effective
Delivers in high-pressure playoff moments
LeBron filled many of those roles, but with his minutes and influence likely to decrease in coming seasons, the Lakers need to think beyond just LeBron and Luka — and start crafting a future-proof duo.
What Austin Reaves Brings (and Why L.A. Might Trade Him)
Reaves is a crafty, high-IQ guard who’s shined in clutch moments and shown he can be a legitimate playoff performer. His ability to play both on and off the ball makes him a great complementary piece. But with the Lakers now all-in on maximizing Luka’s prime, they may decide to package Reaves in a trade to land a bigger, more fitting co-star for the long haul.
So if Reaves is moved — who should the Lakers target next?
Realistic Co-Star Options for Luka Dončić (in L.A.)
1. Mikal Bridges (Brooklyn Nets)
Why It Works: A 3-and-D machine with growing offensive versatility. Bridges can guard elite wings, hit open threes, and play without needing constant touches. He’d be the perfect glue guy between Luka and a fading LeBron.
Feasibility: If Brooklyn hits reset, Bridges could be moved for the right mix of picks and young talent (including Reaves).
2. Brandon Ingram (New Orleans Pelicans)
Why It Works: A smooth-scoring forward with elite length and playmaking skills. Ingram would thrive playing off Luka’s gravity and offers a similar skill set to young KD-lite.
Feasibility: New Orleans might be open to a shakeup — a multi-team trade could make this happen.
3. OG Anunoby (New York Knicks – opt-out potential)
Why It Works: A top-tier wing defender who can hit corner threes and doesn’t need the ball to make an impact. Anunoby is tailor-made for a Luka-centric offense.
Feasibility: If OG opts out or the Knicks face cap pressure, a sign-and-trade could land him in L.A.
4. Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers)
Why It Works: Maxey’s speed, shot-making, and energy would give Luka a dynamic, change-of-pace guard. He could handle second units or close games alongside Luka.
Feasibility: Unlikely unless the Sixers make a superstar swing that forces them to move Maxey.
5. Jalen Williams (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Why It Works: A two-way rising star who’s smart, efficient, and capable on both ends. He doesn’t need touches to be effective — ideal for Luka’s style.
Feasibility: OKC values Williams highly, but if they chase a proven superstar, he could be made available.
Final Thought: Build Smart, Not Just Big
The Lakers made a monumental move by pairing Luka Dončić with LeBron James — one legend passing the torch to the next. But the franchise can’t stop there. They need to think about life after LeBron, and surround Luka with teammates who elevate his strengths, not replicate them.
Mikal Bridges stands out as the best fit — a no-ego, all-impact wing who thrives in big moments without demanding touches.
In today’s NBA, fit matters more than flash. With Luka leading the way, the right co-star could turn this new Lakers era into the next dynasty.
