Lakers Eye $186M Star Domantas Sabonis

Just when you thought the NBA offseason couldn’t get any wilder, the Los Angeles Lakers are stirring up the pot once again. After a rollercoaster season that saw the team shock the league by acquiring Luka Dončić in a blockbuster deadline trade, L.A. was quickly reminded that talent alone doesn’t guarantee playoff success. Their early exit at the hands of the red-hot Minnesota Timberwolves exposed a gaping hole in their roster  a dominant big man.

Now, with Anthony Davis gone, the pressure is mounting on Lakers GM Rob Pelinka to make a decisive move. And according to new reports, he’s got his sights set on three-time All-Star Domantas Sabonis in a trade that could flip the Western Conference on its head.

The Trade That’s Got Everyone Talking:

Los Angeles Lakers Receive:

• Domantas Sabonis (3x All-Star, $186M contract)

• Devin Carter (rookie guard, defensive standout)

Sacramento Kings Receive:

• Austin Reaves (20.2 PPG, rising star)

• Rui Hachimura (versatile wing scorer)

• Dorian Finney-Smith (elite perimeter defender)

• 2031 unprotected first-round pick

A Blockbuster in the Making?

This deal, while hypothetical for now, is picking up serious steam among league insiders. With Sacramento bringing in a new general manager in Scott Perry, there’s a growing belief the Kings might be willing to explore the market for Sabonis  especially if it helps them get younger, more athletic, and more versatile on the perimeter.

And make no mistake: Austin Reaves is no throw-in. The 26-year-old guard exploded this past season, averaging over 20 points and emerging as a fan-favorite in Los Angeles. His smooth shooting stroke (46/37/87 splits), court vision, and fearless mentality would make him an instant centerpiece in Sacramento’s future plans. Paired with Hachimura and Finney-Smith  two long, switchable defenders and a valuable future first-round pick, the Kings could be tempted to reset their core without taking a massive step back.

Why Sabonis Makes Sense for the Lakers

On the Lakers’ side, the move is a bold but logical swing. Sabonis is not just a stat-stuffer  he’s a connector. He can score in the paint, operate as a high-post facilitator, and clean the glass with the best of them. His 2024-25 season averages of 19.1 points, 13.9 rebounds, and 6.0 assists with 59% shooting show a player who impacts every part of the game.

With LeBron James entering his 23rd NBA season and Luka Dončić still needing a true frontcourt partner, Sabonis could be the perfect glue guy to bridge generations of talent. He doesn’t need 20+ shots a night to make his presence felt, and his ability to initiate offense gives Dončić and LeBron a rare luxury  the ability to play off the ball.

Let’s be real: LeBron isn’t getting younger, and the Lakers’ title window is closing fast. This might be the last big swing they can take to maximize their current superstar core.

The Wild Card: Devin Carter

Don’t overlook the inclusion of Devin Carter in this deal. The Providence product and rookie defensive menace could thrive in the Lakers’ system as an energy guy off the bench, providing ball pressure, hustle, and toughness  all qualities L.A. fans love.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Deal That Brings Banner No. 18?

There’s no question this trade would be controversial. Reaves is beloved by fans and has proven himself as a core part of the Lakers’ future. But championships aren’t won with sentiment. They’re won with fit, with balance, and with bold decisions.

If the Lakers can land a foundational big like Sabonis, keep Dončić and LeBron happy, and shore up their frontcourt in one move  it might be the shakeup that turns heartbreak into hardware.

Stay locked in — this is only the beginning.

Rumors are swirling, phones are buzzing, and the Lakers might be on the verge of changing the NBA landscape again.