NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to pursue $217 million Sacramento Kings star to form BIG 3 with LeBron James and Luka Doncic

The Los Angeles Lakers face a critical offseason after their first-round playoff exit, with their frontcourt weaknesses exposed by dominant big men. A major trade could be brewing to address those gaps, and one analyst predicts a three-team deal that would bring Sacramento Kings star Domantas Sabonis to LA.(Disclaimer: The information and analysis presented in this article are based on current speculations. While the details are sourced from credible insights, it’s important to note that these are not confirmed moves or official statements. Readers are encouraged to take this analysis with a grain of salt and stay tuned for official updates as the offseason unfolds.)According to Caleb Hightower of Sporting News, the Los Angeles Lakers struggled against physical centers all season, and their lack of interior presence became glaring in the playoffs. Adding Sabonis, a skilled scorer and elite rebounder, would immediately bolster their frontcourt. Jonah Kubicek of Athlon Sports laid out a compelling case for why this trade makes sense: "The Los Angeles Lakers, after their first-round exit, will likely look for a player who can both maximize the end of LeBron James' prime and be Luka Doncic's long-term running mate, and Sabonis fits the bill." Sabonis, who signed a $186 million extension with the Kings, had a stellar season despite Sacramento’s disappointing 40-42 record. His all-around game would give the Lakers a much-needed interior force. Kubicek’s trade scenario involves the Lakers, Kings, and Memphis Grizzlies. Here’s how it would work: - Get Sabonis, an elite rebounder and playmaking big. - Add Desmond Bane, a reliable scorer and shooter. - Address their frontcourt weakness while keeping core pieces intact. - Begin a rebuild with multiple young players and draft assets. - Clear Sabonis’ contract while adding depth. - Acquire DeMar DeRozan for veteran scoring. - Add Austin Reaves as a secondary playmaker. Sabonis isn’t just a traditional big man—he’s one of the most versatile centers in the league. Last season, he averaged: - 19.1 points per game - 13.9 rebounds per game - 6.0 assists per game - 59.0% field goal shooting - 41.7% from three-point range His ability to score inside, stretch the floor, and facilitate offense would make him an ideal fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. While this is just a hypothetical scenario, Kubicek argues it’s realistic: "While this mock trade certainly makes the Kings less competitive, the massive haul of young talent and draft capital would make it worth it in the long run." It would be difficult for the Lakers to part with Reaves and Hachimura, but Sabonis and Bane might put them back in the running for the championship. Sabonis would be the ideal addition to the Lakers' roster, which needs a significant overhaul. Los Angeles could finally address their frontcourt problems and go deep into the playoffs if this three-team trade comes to pass.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers could swap Luka Doncic with 6-foot-3 former NHL superstar after devastating playoff departureWould you make this deal if you were the Lakers? Let us know your thoughts.