The Los Angeles Lakers are making waves in the NBA offseason, doubling down on their commitment to build a championship-contending roster around their young superstar, Luka Dončić, while keeping LeBron James in the hunt for another title. In a stunning trade proposal, the Lakers are reportedly targeting a reunion with former champion Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP), a versatile 3-and-D wing currently with the Memphis Grizzlies. This move could reshape the Lakers’ roster, bringing back a proven commodity to bolster their immediate title aspirations.
A Strategic Move for Championship Contention
The Lakers’ front office, led by president Rob Pelinka, has been under pressure to balance the long-term vision centered on Dončić, who was acquired in a blockbuster trade last February, with the immediate championship goals of LeBron James, whose window to add to his four NBA titles is narrowing. Dončić, at just 26, has already solidified himself as one of the league’s elite talents, and his recent extension with the Lakers underscores his role as the cornerstone of the franchise’s future. However, Dončić’s desire to compete for a championship now aligns perfectly with James’ urgency, creating a sense of immediacy for the Lakers to make impactful roster moves.
According to Jacob Rude of Silver Screen and Roll, the proposed trade would see the Lakers acquire Caldwell-Pope from the Grizzlies in exchange for Gabe Vincent and Maxi Kleber. “Lakers fans have seen how well KCP plays next to stars firsthand,” Rude wrote. “Even if his game has dropped off, he’s still a 3&D wing, and you can never have too many of those. It’s a far more useful way for the Lakers to spend their money than on Vincent and Kleber.” This trade would not only reunite James with a trusted former teammate but also address a critical need for wing depth and defensive versatility.
Caldwell-Pope: A Proven Champion and Perfect Fit
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, a former University of Georgia standout, is no stranger to the Lakers’ faithful. A key contributor to the team’s 2020 NBA championship in the Orlando bubble, KCP’s tenure in Los Angeles from 2017 to 2021 showcased his ability to thrive alongside superstars like James and Anthony Davis. His sharpshooting (37.8% from three during his Lakers stint) and tenacious perimeter defense made him an invaluable role player. Since leaving the Lakers in the ill-fated Russell Westbrook trade in 2021, Caldwell-Pope has continued to excel, winning another championship with the Denver Nuggets in 2023.
Now in the second year of a three-year, $66 million contract, Caldwell-Pope remains a reliable 3-and-D wing, averaging 8.7 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game last season with the Orlando Magic before being traded to Memphis. His ability to guard multiple positions and knock down open shots would complement the Lakers’ star-heavy lineup, providing the defensive grit and floor spacing needed to compete in the Western Conference.
The Trade: A Win-Win for Both Sides?
The proposed trade would see the Lakers part ways with Gabe Vincent, a veteran guard who averaged 6.4 points last season but has become expendable with the addition of Marcus Smart, and Maxi Kleber, a power forward who played just one game last season due to injury. For the Grizzlies, acquiring Vincent and Kleber—both on expiring contracts—could provide financial flexibility, especially since Caldwell-Pope holds a player option for the 2026-27 season. This move allows Memphis to shed long-term salary while gaining two rotational players who could contribute to their young, talented core.
For the Lakers, the trade addresses several needs. It frees up cap space by moving Vincent’s $11.5 million salary and Kleber’s contract, while adding a proven wing who can seamlessly integrate into coach JJ Redick’s system. Caldwell-Pope’s familiarity with James and his championship pedigree make him an ideal fit for a team looking to maximize its title window.
Dončić and James: A Championship-Driven Partnership
The Lakers’ offseason has been defined by their efforts to keep both Dončić and James satisfied. Dončić’s recent commitment to donate $5 million to support 77 young athletes worldwide highlights his desire to give back, but his on-court focus remains clear: winning now. “Dončić told Lakers president Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick in May that he’s not interested in taking the slow approach in building a contender,” wrote Jasmyn Wimbish of CBS Sports. This aligns with James’ mindset, as the 40-year-old superstar continues to perform at an elite level but knows his championship opportunities are limited.
The addition of Caldwell-Pope could be the missing piece to elevate the Lakers’ roster. With a projected starting lineup of Dončić, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, James, and Deandre Ayton, KCP could anchor a formidable second unit alongside Marcus Smart and Jake LaRavia, providing depth and versatility.
Challenges and Outlook
While the trade proposal is enticing, the Lakers’ front office appears to be in a “wait-and-see” mode, according to a Western Conference executive cited by Yahoo Sports. The team has already added Smart, Ayton, and LaRavia this offseason, and Pelinka may prefer to evaluate the current roster before making another move. Additionally, previous trade discussions for Caldwell-Pope and Donte DiVincenzo were reported by ClutchPoints insider Brett Siegel, indicating the Lakers’ active pursuit of wing upgrades, though those talks did not materialize.
If the Lakers pull off this trade, it could signal their all-in approach for the 2025-26 season, balancing Dončić’s long-term potential with James’ immediate championship aspirations. Caldwell-Pope’s return would not only bolster the roster but also carry sentimental value for fans who remember his clutch performances in the 2020 playoffs.
As the NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Los Angeles to see if this bold move comes to fruition. Reuniting Caldwell-Pope with LeBron James could be the spark the Lakers need to reclaim their place among the league’s elite.