NBA Rumors: Trade Proposal Sends Grizzlies All-Star To Lakers In Blockbuster Move
The Los Angeles Lakers are on the brink of elimination, trailing the Minnesota Timberwolves 3-1 in the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs. However, a bold trade for a Memphis Grizzlies All-Star could reshape their future and create a championship-caliber "Big Four."
Why Jaren Jackson Jr. Could Be the Missing Piece
The Western Conference is more stacked than ever, and despite their star power, the Lakers' current roster may still be one piece short.
Enter Jaren Jackson Jr.—the Grizzlies’ dynamic big man, whose future in Memphis is uncertain after a first-round sweep by the Oklahoma City Thunder and the surprising firing of head coach Taylor Jenkins.
If the Grizzlies decide to retool around Ja Morant and Desmond Bane, Jackson could become available. A trade sending him to L.A. would not only benefit both teams—it could shift the balance of power in the NBA.
Proposed Trade Details
- Lakers Receive: Jaren Jackson Jr.
- Grizzlies Receive: Rui Hachimura, Dalton Knecht, 2031 First-Round Pick, 2026 First-Round Pick Swap
Lakers Form Western Conference’s New Superteam
The Lakers already made waves this season by landing Dončić, forming a lethal trio with LeBron and Reaves. But adding Jackson would elevate them to another level.
Jackson, who averaged 22.2 PPG, 5.6 RPG, and 1.5 BPG this season, provides elite defense, floor-spacing (37.5% from three), and versatility. His ability to protect the rim and stretch the floor makes him an ideal fit alongside LeBron’s playmaking, Dončić’s scoring, and Reaves’ shooting.
More importantly, his arrival would ease the burden on the aging LeBron, allowing the Lakers to better manage minutes and matchups.
A "Big Four" of Dončić, LeBron, Reaves, and Jackson would instantly make L.A. the most talented team in the West—on paper, at least.
With rising powerhouses like the Thunder and Timberwolves dominating, the Lakers need a game-changing move. If they want one last shot at a title with LeBron, this is the kind of high-stakes trade they must consider.
Grizzlies Begin New Era After Disappointing Season
For Memphis, this trade would signal a shift away from the "Grit and Grind 2.0" era. After a disappointing 11th-place finish and a swift playoff exit, the front office may be ready to reshape the roster around Morant and Bane.
In exchange for Jackson, the Grizzlies land Rui Hachimura (13.1 PPG this season), rookie sharpshooter Dalton Knecht (37.6% from three), and valuable future draft assets.
Bane has blossomed into a star (19.2 PPG, 5.3 APG), and with Hachimura and Knecht adding wing depth, the Grizzlies could pivot toward a faster, more perimeter-oriented attack. The picks also provide ammunition for future moves.
Final Verdict: Lakers Must Go All-In
If the Lakers are serious about contending before LeBron retires, this is the type of aggressive move they need. The West is loaded, and standing pat isn’t an option.
For Memphis, trading Jackson would be painful but necessary to reset their timeline. Meanwhile, L.A. would send a clear message: They’re not fading away—they’re reloading for one last championship run.
Image - Petre Thomas-Imagn
