Lakers Make Unexpected Player Untouchable in Trade Talks

With the NBA trade deadline approaching, Lakers fans are eagerly awaiting roster upgrades. Although LeBron James and Anthony Davis are performing well, the Lakers are still a couple of moves away from becoming true championship contenders, especially in the competitive Western Conference.

One player reportedly available in trade talks is De’Aaron Fox of the Sacramento Kings. Last week, it was revealed that the Kings placed Fox on the trade block after he expressed a lack of interest in staying in Sacramento once his contract expires in the summer of 2026.

The Lakers were quickly mentioned as a potential destination, as they could use another perimeter scorer and shot-creator. Additionally, Fox’s agent is Rich Paul, and with the connection to Klutch Sports, the fit seemed logical. However, ESPN’s Shams Charania later reported that Fox did not consider the Lakers a preferred destination.

NBA insider Jake Fischer provided insight into why this was the case. It turns out that Sacramento’s “presumed top target” in a Fox deal would be Lakers guard Austin Reaves, and the Lakers have made him virtually untouchable.

“According to sources with The Stein Line, Klutch is aware that the Lakers have no intention of trading Sacramento’s presumed top target in any Fox deal: Austin Reaves.”

The Lakers could easily outbid any offer the Kings are likely to receive for Fox. A package including Austin Reaves and two first-round picks is a very appealing offer. The Kings are looking to stay competitive, and swapping Fox for Reaves helps them do that while also adding valuable draft assets.

Upgrading from Reaves to Fox is certainly tempting and could be worth sacrificing some draft picks. However, without the assurance that Fox would sign an extension with the Lakers, it’s also a significant risk. Considering LeBron James is now in his 40s, that risk might still be worth taking.