Lakers exploring trade scenarios for Kyrie Irving
The Los Angeles Lakers are planning for life after LeBron James, with Kyrie Irving emerging as a potential target to recreate his partnership with Luka Doncic in Los Angeles
The future of the Los Angeles Lakers inevitably runs through LeBron James’ upcoming free agency decision, with a very real possibility that he could consider leaving Hollywood. Facing that uncertainty, the Lakers’ front office is already making moves behind the scenes and preparing alternative plans to avoid being caught off guard next season.
According to NBA insider Scoop B Robinson, Lakers executives have already begun evaluating trade scenarios in the event the four-time NBA champion departs, with Kyrie Irving reportedly high on their list of targets.
The franchise’s goal would be to recreate in Los Angeles the same duo with Luka Doncic that carried the Dallas Mavericks to the NBA Finals in 2024. Irving’s future in Dallas has become more uncertain following the departure of coach Jason Kidd. The Mavericks would still like to keep him, but the organization is also reportedly considering younger options more aligned with the roster’s timeline.
Despite the tension between the two organizations following the Doncic trade, the Lakers appear willing to explore the possibility. The idea would be to rebuild around the Slovenian star with the same basketball ecosystem that surrounded him in Texas, and Irving would represent the ideal backcourt partner.
The Lakers’ plans, however, may extend even if LeBron James decides to stay. If James were willing to remain in Los Angeles while accepting a substantial pay cut, the front office would reportedly do everything possible to make the salary structure work and still pursue Irving. A lineup featuring Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves would represent the dream scenario for both Lakers fans and the franchise’s championship aspirations.
The biggest obstacle remains negotiations with Dallas. With limited trade assets available, the Lakers are reportedly prepared to put their only remaining future first-round picks on the table (2031 and 2033), while also potentially including a large contract such as Jarred Vanderbilt’s to make the finances work.