Lakers Eye Kristaps Porziņģis in Potential Trade with Celtics
LOS ANGELES – September 6, 2024 – The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly evaluating a trade involving Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porziņģis, according to sources. The potential deal would see the Lakers acquire Porziņģis in exchange for a package including Rui Hachimura, Maxi Kleber, and draft pick swaps. the deal aims to address the Lakers’ need for a versatile center. This proposed trade has meaningful implications for both teams, so stay tuned for more details.
Lakers Eye Kristaps Porziņģis in Potential Trade with Celtics
Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly considering a trade for Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porziņģis, offering a package centered around Rui Hachimura, Maxi Kleber, a 2030 first-round pick swap, and a 2032 first-round pick swap.
The Lakers’ Perspective: A Need for a True Center
The Lakers are in dire need of a reliable center, and Porziņģis fits the bill. He brings a multifaceted skill set to the table, offering shot-blocking prowess, floor spacing capabilities, and the ability to post up when needed. He would be a meaningful upgrade over current options like Jaxson Hayes.
Did you know? Kristaps Porziņģis was drafted 4th overall in the 2015 NBA draft by the New York knicks.
While the Porziņģis/Luka Dončić pairing in Dallas didn’t achieve the anticipated synergy, both players have matured and gained valuable experience. Joining LeBron James in los Angeles could provide a renewed focus on team success over individual accolades.
The Celtics’ Rationale: Asset Management and Forward Depth
For Boston, the potential trade isn’t primarily about immediate financial flexibility, as Porziņģis’ contract expires after the 2025-26 season. Instead, it’s about acquiring valuable draft assets and adding a younger forward in Rui Hachimura.
Pro Tip: Draft pick swaps can be valuable assets, especially if a team anticipates being in a better position than the team they are swapping with.
Hachimura could theoretically complement Jayson Tatum in various positionless forward combinations, provided the Celtics extend his contract beyond the current season.
Porziņģis’ Value: A Versatile Big Man
Despite a virus derailing the final months of his 2024-25 season, a healthy Kristaps Porziņģis remains one of the NBA’s premier and most versatile big men.
Trade Implications and Future Outlook
The proposed trade could significantly impact both teams. The Lakers would gain a much-needed center to contend in the Western Conference, while the Celtics would acquire assets to build for the future.
