NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Could Bag $132,929,128 Phoenix Suns Center to Form Big 3 with LeBron James and Luka Doncic
The Los Angeles Lakers are no strangers to blockbuster moves, and as the 2025 NBA offseason heats up, the rumor mill is buzzing with speculation about their next big acquisition. After their surprising trade for Luka Doncic in February, which sent shockwaves through the league, the Lakers are now reportedly eyeing a deal to bring former Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton, currently with the Portland Trail Blazers, to Los Angeles. This potential move, centered around Ayton’s $132,929,128 contract, could create a formidable Big 3 alongside LeBron James and Doncic, positioning the Lakers as serious championship contenders. With the team’s early playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves still fresh, general manager Rob Pelinka is under pressure to bolster the roster, and Ayton might just be the missing piece.
The Lakers’ acquisition of Doncic was a game-changer, but it came at the cost of Anthony Davis, leaving a glaring hole at the center position. The team struggled with rim protection and rebounding, issues that were exposed in their five-game playoff loss. Ayton, the former No. 1 overall pick, brings a skill set that could address these weaknesses. Known for his ability to catch lobs, knock down midrange jumpers, and rebound at a high level, Ayton has career averages of 16.1 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. His performance during the Suns’ 2021 Western Conference Finals run showcased his potential as a dominant force, even if consistency has been a challenge. Pairing him with Doncic’s playmaking and James’ leadership could unlock a new level of production, creating a dynamic trio capable of competing with the league’s elite.
The proposed trade would likely see the Lakers parting ways with forward Rui Hachimura, whose versatility has been valuable but not indispensable in the wake of Doncic’s arrival. Additional assets, such as Gabe Vincent or Jarred Vanderbilt, could be included to match salaries, though the Lakers are wary of depleting their depth. Portland, in the midst of a rebuild, might be open to moving Ayton for younger players and draft capital, especially as they focus on developing their backcourt. The Lakers’ limited trade assets make this deal a delicate balancing act, but Pelinka’s history of bold moves suggests he’s willing to take risks to maximize the championship window with James, who at 40 continues to perform at an All-NBA level.
Ayton’s fit with the Lakers is intriguing. Doncic thrives with big men who can finish at the rim and space the floor, and Ayton’s ability to operate in the high post and protect the rim aligns perfectly with coach JJ Redick’s vision. James, meanwhile, has a history of elevating big men, from Chris Bosh to Davis, and could help Ayton rediscover the form that made him a top draft pick. However, concerns linger about Ayton’s defensive consistency and motor, which have drawn criticism in Portland. For the Lakers, the gamble is whether Ayton’s upside outweighs these risks, especially with Doncic and James shouldering much of the offensive load.
The broader context of the Lakers’ offseason adds urgency to this rumor. With James’ $52.6 million player option looming and Doncic eligible for a supermax extension, Pelinka must sell both stars on a vision of sustained success. The team’s lack of draft picks, with their 2025 first-rounder owed to Atlanta, limits their flexibility, making trades like this one critical. Fans and analysts are divided, with some questioning whether Ayton is the right target compared to other big men like Domantas Sabonis or Daniel Gafford, who have also been linked to the Lakers. Yet, Ayton’s youth and potential make him an attractive long-term investment, especially as the team plans for a post-James era.
As the offseason unfolds, the Lakers’ pursuit of Ayton underscores their relentless ambition. The idea of a Big 3 featuring James, Doncic, and Ayton is tantalizing, promising a blend of star power, versatility, and size that
