Lakers predicted to trade Bronny James for $298M four-time ex-Warriors champion in 4-team deal

The Los Angeles Lakers are still looking to put an even better finish on their summer after getting off to a strong start. Los Angeles has been active on the trade front this offseason and has shown interest in several players currently on the trade block.

One name in particular is four-time NBA champion Klay Thompson, who could be on the move from the Dallas Mavericks. Thompson is reportedly interested in joining the Lakers.

“My understanding is that Thompson would welcome a return to Los Angeles, where he spent part of his childhood and still owns a home. The Miami Heat are another team frequently mentioned in NBA circles as a potential landing spot for the future Hall of Famer," The Athletic's Christian Clark wrote.

The Lakers are looking to shed some contracts to create the flexibility needed to make a trade for a player like Thompson. Dalton Knecht, Bronny James and others are names to watch.

“Clearly, the Lakers need to dump someone, and I think it's going to be one of three players," Lakers insider Jovan Buha said. "It's going to either be Dalton Knecht, Jaden Hardy, or Bronny James."

The Lakers could also potentially be involved in a larger deal for Thompson. Heavy.com’s Adel Ahmad believes Los Angeles could acquire the veteran sharpshooter in a four-team trade involving the Houston Rockets, Denver Nuggets and Mavericks.

“Lakers receive: Klay Thompson second round picks in 2027 and 2031 (via HOU). Mavericks receive: Christian Braun and a 2031 second round pick (via LAL). Nuggets receive: Jarred Vanderbilt and a 2029 second round pick (via DAL). Rockets receive: Dalton Knecht and Bronny James,” Ahmad wrote.

The Lakers would be giving up players they could afford to part with in exchange for someone they believe would provide a significant boost to the roster. Thompson is one of the greatest shooters in NBA history and has already put together a Hall of Fame-caliber career.

Thompson has earned $298 million in contracts throughout his career. The Lakers could use another elite shooter alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, and Thompson playing in an offense orchestrated by head coach JJ Redick could create major problems for opposing defenses.

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