As the NBA trade deadline draws closer, the Los Angeles Lakers are deep in the thick of the rumor mill-and they’re not just window-shopping. According to multiple reports, the team is actively exploring the market for help on the wing, and they’re willing to make some notable pieces available to get it done.
Rui Hachimura’s Name in the Mix
One of the more intriguing names floating around: Rui Hachimura. The forward, who’s on an expiring $18.3 million contract, is reportedly being discussed in trade talks.
But here’s where it gets interesting-Hachimura’s recent play has upped his value. He’s been showing flashes of the versatile, two-way forward the Lakers hoped they were getting, which means L.A. now faces a bit of a dilemma.
His improved performance makes him a more attractive trade chip, but it also makes him harder to part with.
Still, the Lakers are clearly in “win-now” mode, and that means tough decisions. Alongside Hachimura, the front office is reportedly open to moving Gabe Vincent ($11.5 million) and Maxi Kleber ($11 million), signaling a willingness to shake things up if the right deal presents itself.
Who’s on the Lakers’ Radar?
The list of potential targets is long and varied, with a mix of wings and guards who could help bolster the Lakers’ depth and flexibility. Names reportedly under consideration include:
- De’Andre Hunter (Cavaliers) - A strong defender with a developing offensive game.
- Naji Marshall (Mavericks) - A gritty, do-it-all forward who brings energy off the bench.
- Saddiq Bey (Pelicans) - A floor-spacing wing with size and a scorer’s mentality.
- Donte DiVincenzo (Timberwolves) - A combo guard with playoff experience and defensive chops.
- Keon Ellis (Kings) - A young guard with upside and a growing reputation as a perimeter defender.
And then there are the usual suspects-players who’ve been linked to L.A. before-like Herbert Jones, Andrew Wiggins, and Jonathan Kuminga. All three bring different skill sets, but each would fit a need for a Lakers team that’s looking to get more athletic and versatile on the wing.
Second-year wing Dalton Knecht is also a name to watch. While he’s shown promise, his inclusion in trade talks suggests the Lakers are willing to sacrifice some youth if it means upgrading the roster for a postseason push.
Clippers Focused, But Flexible
Across the hall, the Clippers are rolling-and they’re not looking to mess with the core. Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Ivica Zubac are reportedly off the table. But that doesn’t mean L.A. is standing pat.
According to reports, the Clippers are exploring ways to add a pick-and-roll-oriented point guard and create roster space to potentially promote two-way players Kobe Sanders and Jordan Miller. One name that’s come up as a possible trade piece: John Collins. While he’s not a current Clipper, the implication is that he’s a player they could pursue as part of a broader reshuffling.
Kings Exploring Big Moves
Sacramento, meanwhile, is playing with some high-stakes chips. According to league sources, the Kings have had discussions about packaging DeMar DeRozan and Keon Ellis in a potential trade. That’s a bold move, one that suggests the Kings are serious about making a playoff push-or potentially reshaping their roster for the long haul.
The most eye-catching name in those conversations? Domantas Sabonis.
At least one team was told it would take a first-round pick to pry him away. Talks with the Raptors reportedly included RJ Barrett and Ochai Agbaji, but Sacramento is hesitant to take on the long-term money tied to Jakob Poeltl or Immanuel Quickley.
That’s a sign the Kings are being selective-not just about who they bring in, but about the contracts they’re willing to absorb.
Suns Eyeing a Power Forward Upgrade
In Phoenix, the Suns are keeping an eye on the power forward market. The goal?
Find someone who can bring more scoring punch than current starter Royce O’Neale. But this isn’t just about the next few months.
The Suns are reportedly looking for a player who fits both now and into the future, which means they’re not likely to overpay for a short-term rental.
With the deadline looming, it’s clear the Pacific Division is buzzing with activity. The Lakers are weighing whether to cash in on rising assets like Hachimura.
The Clippers are fine-tuning around their stars. The Kings are flirting with major moves.
And the Suns are looking for that one piece to elevate their ceiling.
It’s shaping up to be a fascinating finish to the trade season-especially out West, where the margin between contender and pretender is razor-thin.