The Los Angeles Lakers need useful players that would be instrumental in reshaping their roster. A new prediction suggests the franchise could trade Austin Reaves to pair Zion Williamson with LeBron James and Luka Doncic, forming a dominant trio.
According to Fansided’s Joseph Kallan, the Lakers could make another ground-breaking trade by targeting New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson. While the move would elevate their roster, Williamson’s injury history makes it a risky gamble.
“Whenever a big-name player hits the trade block, the Lakers are always in the conversation,” Kallan said. “This time, however, it’s not just speculation. The Los Angeles Lakers have already shocked the world by landing Luka Doncic, a move no one saw coming. If they were willing to shake up their roster for one superstar, why not go all-in on another?”
Along with other assets, Austin Reaves or Rui Hachimura would probably be included in a possible deal package. The Los Angeles Lakers would have to balance Williamson’s durability issues against the advantages of acquiring his explosive skill.
Williamson’s health has been a recurring issue throughout his career. Since being drafted first overall in 2019, he has played in just 214 of New Orleans’ 400 regular-season games. A hamstring injury sidelined him earlier this season, contributing to the Pelicans’ struggles.
Despite these setbacks, Williamson remains a force when healthy. His combination of power, athleticism, and scoring ability makes him one of the most dynamic forwards in the league.
How Zion fits With LeBron James and Luka Doncic
Adding Zion Williamson would create a terrifying Big Three alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic. His ability to attack the rim and draw defensive attention would open up more perimeter opportunities for Doncic, while LeBron’s playmaking would maximize Williamson’s strengths.
“Zion would be a perfect fit alongside LeBron James — a downhill force who can dominate in transition and put relentless pressure on the rim,” Kallan noted. “A LeBron-Zion pairing would demand defensive collapses in the paint, opening up even more perimeter opportunities for Doncic.”
However, trading away Austin Reaves, a reliable scorer and playmaker, could weaken the Los Angeles Lakers’ depth. Reaves has emerged as a key contributor, and replacing him with an injury-prone star carries significant risk.
Potential trade scenarios involving Zion Williamson
– Lakers receive: Zion Williamson
– Pelicans receive: Austin Reaves or Rui Hachimura + draft picks
While the move would make headlines, the Lakers must decide if Williamson’s upside outweighs the potential downsides.
The Los Angeles Lakers have shown they’re willing to make bold moves, but trading for Zion Williamson would be their riskiest yet. His talent is undeniable, but his injury history makes him a volatile asset. If they pull the trigger, they could dominate—or regret the gamble.
