Surprising Trade Proposal: Lakers Could Add Longtime Rival
A potential trade could see the Lakers bring in Dillon Brooks, a player who has long been a rival of LeBron James, to bolster their frontcourt.
The Los Angeles Lakers have not been active in free agency this summer, despite adding Dalton Knecht and Bronny James through the draft. With LeBron James likely nearing retirement as he approaches 40 during the 2024-25 season, the Lakers are under pressure to maximize their opportunities in the next two years. Additionally, Anthony Davis needs more support, as having just two All-Stars isn’t enough to secure a championship. A trade involving LeBron’s former nemesis, Dillon Brooks, could strengthen the Lakers’ defense and boost their title chances.
Trade Details
- Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Dillon Brooks
- Houston Rockets Receive: Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, 2028 First-Round Pick Swap (LAL), 2030 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
This trade could shake up the Western Conference by bringing Brooks’ elite defensive skills to a Lakers team that struggled defensively last season, ranking 23rd with 117.4 points allowed per game. The trade would also create buzz due to the pairing of former rivals.
Lakers Improve with Brooks
Acquiring Dillon Brooks could significantly improve the Lakers’ defense and versatility. Known for his tough defense, Brooks averaged 12.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 0.9 steals per game last season with the Rockets. His ability to defend multiple positions would complement the Lakers’ core, allowing LeBron James to play point guard while Brooks covers forward roles.
Brooks’ intense style and ability to disrupt opponents would add a new edge to the Lakers’ defense, making them tougher to score against. His career average of 0.9 steals per game shows his defensive instincts, which would be crucial in creating turnovers and fast-break opportunities. Offensively, Brooks can also contribute, as evidenced by his career-high 37-point game against Portland in 2021.
Integrating Brooks into the lineup would allow LeBron and Davis to save energy on defense and focus more on scoring. Pairing Brooks with D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, LeBron, and Davis would create a strong starting lineup with both offensive and defensive strengths. Brooks’ presence would provide the Lakers with a defensive anchor to help contend with top perimeter players in the Western Conference.
Rockets Add Depth Around Sengun and Green
The Rockets would benefit from this trade by acquiring Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent, adding valuable depth around their young stars Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green. Hachimura, who averaged 13.6 points and 4.3 rebounds per game last season, brings scoring versatility to the forward position and aligns well with the Rockets’ rebuilding timeline.
Hachimura’s skill set makes him an ideal addition to the Rockets’ emerging roster, adding inside and outside scoring versatility. Gabe Vincent’s ability to make clutch shots, as seen during his playoff run with the Miami Heat in 2023, would provide a reliable scoring option off the bench.
These new players would enhance the Rockets’ rotation, allowing them to maintain competitive lineups throughout games. The included draft assets, such as the 2028 first-round pick swap and 2030 second-round pick, give the Rockets further flexibility to build a competitive team for the future.
A Win-Win Trade with Major Impact
This trade presents a win-win scenario for both the Lakers and the Rockets, likely to generate significant buzz in the NBA. For the Lakers, acquiring Brooks demonstrates a focus on defense and toughness, which are critical for a deep playoff run. Brooks’ reputation as a fierce competitor would fit well with the Lakers’ championship aspirations, potentially rekindling old rivalries.
For the Rockets, the focus on acquiring young talent and draft picks shows their commitment to building a sustainable, long-term contender. This trade would likely dominate sports discussions, with analysts praising both teams for their strategic moves. It offers a blend of immediate impact for the Lakers and future potential for the Rockets, making it a landmark deal in the NBA. This trade not only meets the immediate needs of both teams but also positions them for future success, making it a headline-grabbing move that could shift the balance of power in the league.
