New Blockbuster Three-Team Trade Proposal Sends LeBron James To The Clippers, Ivica Zubac To The Lakers

The Atlanta Hawks made significant moves at the start of free agency, signing Nickeil Alexander-Walker to a four-year, $62 million deal via sign-and-trade (sending a 2027 2nd-round pick to Minnesota) and Luke Kennard to a one-year, $11 million deal. They also previously acquired an unprotected first-round pick from New Orleans. These moves position the Hawks to contend in an Eastern Conference facing injury issues, though they still need depth at small forward, center, or ball-handler and have two roster spots open.

LeBron James opted into his $52.6 million player option for the upcoming season with the Lakers. However, reporting suggested he is evaluating his Lakers future, opening the door to a potential trade, though it's considered far-fetched. Trading James could give the Lakers more flexibility to build around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves and extend Reaves.

A hypothetical trade scenario was proposed to fill team needs: the Hawks would receive Derrick Jones Jr., the Clippers would receive LeBron James, and the Lakers would receive Ivica Zubac and Bogdan Bogdanovic. Analysis for each team included: * Hawks Pros: Jones Jr. provides a needed backup SF behind Risacher, is a great defender on a good contract, and could thrive offensively with Trae Young. * Hawks Cons: Jones Jr.'s significant playoff offensive struggles last season are a concern. * Clippers Pros: Acquiring James creates a potential super-team (with Harden and Leonard), going all-in for a championship now, bolstered by offseason additions like Brook Lopez and John Collins. * Clippers Cons: Losing Zubac (a key center) and Jones Jr. (elite perimeter defender) would hurt; Lopez may not be a full-time starter; James's age and longevity are risks. * Lakers Pros: They would acquire an elite center (Zubac) to pair with Doncic/Reaves and a strong bench scorer (Bogdanovic), improving depth and reducing reliance on Ayton; considered a good return if James wants out.