NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to sign $112.6 million Milwaukee Bucks superstar to support LeBron James and Luka Doncic power duo | NBA News
The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring ways to strengthen their roster after signing Jake LaRavia, and a surprising opportunity has emerged with Damian Lillard hitting the waiver wire. The former Milwaukee Bucks star, recently released to accommodate Myles Turner, could be a high-reward gamble for the Lakers as they look to build around Luka Dončić.
Why Damian Lillard Makes Sense for the Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers have a history of chasing superstar talent, and Lillard fits the bill despite his recent injury. As Tyler Watts of Lake Show Life noted: “LeBron (James) pressured the front office to make a splash. A future Hall of Famer and a member of the NBA 75 is now available and already being paid by Milwaukee. The Lakers love to chase superstars, and this is their chance to get one at the lowest cost possible.” Before acquiring Dončić, Lillard was a serious trade target for Los Angeles. The team had concerns about D’Angelo Russell’s playoff inconsistencies and saw Lillard as a stabilizing force at point guard. Now that he’s available, the Lakers may revisit the idea.
Lillard’s Recent Performance and Injury Concerns
Damian Lillard (Image via Getty)
Lillard suffered an Achilles tear in the playoffs and will likely miss the entire 2025-26 season. However, his pre-injury numbers were still elite: – 24.9 points per game – 7.1 assists per game – 4.7 rebounds per game – 1.2 steals per game At 34, his health is a question mark, but his playmaking and scoring ability remain undeniable.
Fit With the Los Angeles Lakers
Pairing Lillard with Dončić would create one of the most dynamic backcourts in the league, but there are challenges: 1. Waiting a Full Year – Lillard won’t contribute immediately. 2. Ball Dominance – Both Dončić and Lillard thrive with the ball in their hands. 3. Defensive Limitations – The Lakers would need to compensate defensively. Still, the upside is significant. As Watts pointed out, “The Lakers should be that franchise because it is the chance to land a premier talent at a bargain rate.”
What’s Next for the Lakers?
The front office must decide whether to take a patient approach with Lillard or pursue more immediate help. Given their history of bold moves, this could be another high-stakes gamble.
Key Considerations
– Low-Risk, High-Reward – Milwaukee is still paying Lillard’s salary. – Star Power – Adds another elite player alongside Dončić and LeBron. – Playoff Experience – Lillard’s clutch pedigree could be invaluable.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers could acquire $100,880,290 Dallas Mavericks power duo in blockbuster deal for basketball legend LeBron JamesWith other teams likely interested, the Los Angeles Lakers must act quickly if they want to secure the former All-Star.
