NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers might land $20 million Chicago Bulls star to bolster team around LeBron James in blockbuster 4-way deal | NBA News - Times of India
LeBron James and Alex Caruso in Los Angeles Lakers (Image via Nathaniel S. Butler/ Getty Images)
The NBA offseason rumor mill is heating up, and the Los Angeles Lakers are at the center of a potential league-altering trade. A proposed four-team deal would see two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo land with the Toronto Raptors, while the Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Chicago Bulls all walk away with significant returns.
The trade, suggested by Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, would reshape multiple franchises. Here’s how the deal would play out:
- Giannis Antetokounmpo - Jevon Carter - Jalen Smith
- R.J. Barrett - Gradey Dick - Chris Boucher - Ja’Kobe Walter - Gabe Vincent Picks: - 2025 First-Round Pick (9 overall) - 2026 First-Round Pick (swap) - 2027 First-Round Pick (unprotected) - 2028 First-Round Pick (swap) - 2029 First-Round Pick (unprotected) - 2030 First-Round Pick (swap) - 2031 First-Round Pick (unprotected) - 2032 First-Round Pick (top-five protected) - 2026 Second-Round Pick (via Los Angeles)
Los Angeles Lakers insider weighs in on LeBron James' options after team's elimination from finals (Image Credit: Getty Images)
- Lonzo Ball - Jakob Poeltl
- Dalton Knecht - Jarred Vanderbilt - Shake Milton - AJ Lawson Trade Exceptions: - $10 million - $9 million - $1.5 million
The Raptors would land Giannis Antetokounmpo without gutting their core. As Pincus notes: "Giving up only Barrett, Dick, and Poeltl off the roster while parting ways with first-round picks that would likely be late in the round should Giannis remain his perennial MVP-level self." (H/t: Sporting News)Pairing Giannis with Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram instantly makes Toronto a title contender.
The Bucks would secure a treasure trove of draft picks and young talent. R.J. Barrett and Gradey Dick offer immediate upside, while the draft capital ensures long-term flexibility. If Damian Lillard returns strong from his Achilles injury, Milwaukee could still compete—or pivot toward a full rebuild.
The Los Angeles Lakers would solve two major issues: - Adding a true starting center in Jakob Poeltl - Upgrading their backup guard spot with Lonzo Ball Dumping Gabe Vincent and Jarred Vanderbilt’s contracts is an added bonus.
The Bulls would shed Jevon Carter and Jalen Smith while acquiring expiring deals, trade exceptions, and a promising young player in Dalton Knecht. This move gives them financial flexibility and a potential rotation piece.This trade would send shockwaves through the NBA. While nothing is confirmed, the framework makes sense for all parties involved. Keep an eye on these teams as the offseason unfolds—this deal could change the league’s landscape.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Eye $12,822,000 Golden State Warriors Guard to Boost Backcourt and Improve LeBron Title Odds