Lakers Shake Up NBA: After Landing Luka Dončić, L.A. Eyes Warriors’ Kevon Looney & Gary Payton II in Bold Trade Push
The Los Angeles Lakers made waves in the NBA by acquiring Luka Dončić in a blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round pick to the Dallas Mavericks. However, the Lakers’ front office isn’t done making moves just yet. With championship aspirations still in mind, they are now setting their sights on bolstering their roster even further.
According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Lakers are closely monitoring the Golden State Warriors, particularly if they decide to move Kevon Looney or Gary Payton II. “Los Angeles is said to be paying attention to what the Golden State Warriors have planned, especially if they give up notable secondary players like Kevon Looney and Gary Payton II, sources said,” Siegel reported.
Looney, a proven veteran, is known for his dominance on the boards when it matters most. During the 2023 NBA Playoffs, he grabbed an incredible 15.1 rebounds per game in the first-round series against the Sacramento Kings. Though his current season stats—5.2 points and 6.7 rebounds per game—are more modest, his ability to secure crucial rebounds and anchor the paint remains valuable. With Anthony Davis now in Dallas, Looney could step in and provide the size and rebounding the Lakers need.
Meanwhile, Gary Payton II brings relentless perimeter defense, something the Lakers could use to complement their star duo of LeBron James and Dončić. Despite being 32, Payton is still one of the league’s premier defensive guards. His 111 defensive rating per 100 possessions and a 1.5 defensive box plus-minus highlight his ability to lock down elite scorers. His championship pedigree with Golden State would make him a valuable asset in the Lakers’ postseason push.
However, the big question remains: Are the Warriors willing to part ways with them? Golden State is still fighting for playoff positioning, making it unlikely they would give up key rotation players without receiving value in return. The Lakers may need to offer players like Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, or rookie Dalton Knecht to entice the Warriors.
With the trade deadline fast approaching, time is running out for the Lakers to make their next move. Will they manage to add Looney and Payton II to strengthen their title hopes? Or will the Warriors hold firm and keep their battle-tested role players? The next few days could be pivotal for both franchises.
