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In a stunning turn of events, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly on the brink of acquiring Minnesota Timberwolves’ star center Rudy Gobert, a four-time Defensive Player of the Year, in a blockbuster trade that could reshape the Western Conference landscape. According to a recent trade proposal outlined by Athlon Sports, the Lakers are poised to address their glaring frontcourt issues by landing the $109 million All-Star, but the cost could be steep. Here’s a deep dive into the proposed deal, its implications, and what it means for both teams.
The Trade Proposal
The trade, proposed by ClutchPoints’ Bailey Bassett, would see the Lakers acquire Rudy Gobert in exchange for guard Austin Reaves, point guard Gabe Vincent, and forward Maxi Kleber. This move comes as the Lakers look to bolster their roster after a disappointing first-round playoff exit against the Timberwolves, where their lack of size and rim protection was brutally exposed. Gobert, entering the first year of a three-year, $109 million contract extension, is seen as the solution to the Lakers’ “big man problem.”
RUDY GOBERT MASTERCLASS GAME TO ELIMINATE THE LAKERS 🤯
27 PTS (playoff career-high)
12-15 FG
24 REB (playoff career-high)
2 BLKS pic.twitter.com/rqc2xJ6W19— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) May 1, 2025
Gobert, at 32 years old, remains one of the NBA’s premier defensive anchors. Despite averaging a career-low 1.4 blocks per game last season, his presence in the paint is undeniable. In the 2024-25 season, he posted 12 points, 10.9 rebounds, and shot nearly 67% from the field, proving he can still dominate the glass and protect the rim. For a Lakers team that struggled with interior defense, particularly against Minnesota’s frontcourt in the playoffs, Gobert’s addition could be a game-changer.
Why the Lakers Need Gobert
The Lakers’ roster, while boasting superstar talents like Luka Doncic and LeBron James, has been plagued by a lack of size since trading Anthony Davis for Doncic. Players like Jaxson Hayes, Rui Hachimura, and Jarred Vanderbilt were forced to play out of position at center during the playoffs, leading to a “gentleman’s sweep” by the Timberwolves. Gobert’s elite rim protection and rebounding would provide the Lakers with a true anchor in the paint, allowing Doncic and James to operate with more freedom on offense.
“Gobert is still an elite defensive player,” Bassett noted. “The four-time Defensive Player of the Year is still one of the best rim protectors in the NBA. Ultimately, the Lakers just need a big body who can take up space down low and collect rebounds.” His ability to clog the paint and deter drives would complement the Lakers’ perimeter-heavy attack, potentially elevating them to true contender status in the West.
The Cost: Losing Austin Reaves
The proposed trade comes with a significant catch for the Lakers: parting ways with Austin Reaves, who had a breakout 2024-25 season, averaging 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds while shooting 46% from the field and 37.7% from three. Reaves, a fan favorite and a key piece of the Lakers’ future, is on a favorable contract and has shown star potential. Trading him for Gobert, who is on the decline at 32 and lacks offensive versatility, is a tough pill to swallow.
Gabe Vincent, who has struggled to find a consistent role in Los Angeles, and Maxi Kleber, a versatile but injury-prone forward, round out the trade package. While losing Vincent and Kleber may not sting as much, Reaves’ departure could haunt the Lakers if Gobert fails to deliver a championship-caliber impact. However, with LeBron James approaching 41 and potentially nearing retirement, the Lakers may feel the urgency to maximize their championship window with Doncic, even if it means sacrificing young talent.
Why the Timberwolves Would Consider the Trade
For the Timberwolves, the trade makes sense as they navigate financial constraints and roster decisions. Minnesota is looking to get under the NBA’s second tax apron while maintaining their contender status. Trading Gobert, whose $109 million contract is a significant cap hit, could provide financial flexibility. In return, they would acquire Austin Reaves, a young, ascending guard who could pair well with Anthony Edwards and potentially replace the production of pending free agents like Nickeil Alexander-Walker or Naz Reid, who has a player option.
The Timberwolves have reached the Western Conference Finals in back-to-back seasons but have hit a ceiling, partly due to Gobert’s offensive limitations. Reaves, with his playmaking and scoring ability, could provide a fresh dynamic to Minnesota’s backcourt. Additionally, Gabe Vincent and Maxi Kleber could serve as valuable role players or trade chips in future deals.
Implications for the Lakers
If the trade goes through, the Lakers would form a formidable trio of Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Rudy Gobert. While Gobert’s offensive game is limited, his defensive prowess and rebounding would address critical weaknesses. The Lakers could dominate the paint on both ends, with Gobert anchoring the defense and Doncic and James leading one of the league’s most potent offenses. However, the loss of Reaves’ scoring and playmaking could strain the team’s depth, forcing general manager Rob Pelinka to find additional guard help.
Implications for the Timberwolves
For Minnesota, trading Gobert for Reaves could signal a shift toward a younger, more versatile core. Reaves, at 27, is entering his prime and could thrive alongside Edwards. The Timberwolves would need to address their frontcourt depth, potentially relying on Naz Reid or exploring additional trades. If Reid re-signs, Minnesota could remain competitive while shedding Gobert’s hefty contract.
Fan and Analyst Reactions
The proposed trade has sparked heated debate among fans and analysts. On X, posts have highlighted the Lakers’ interest in bolstering their roster, with some praising the potential fit of Gobert’s defense alongside Doncic and James, while others lament the loss of Reaves’ upside. One NBA executive noted, “The Lakers are desperate to fix their frontcourt, but giving up Reaves might be too steep a price for a 32-year-old center who can’t stretch the floor.”
Conclusion
The potential acquisition of Rudy Gobert would be a bold move for the Lakers as they aim to reclaim their status as NBA contenders. While Gobert’s defensive impact could transform their roster, the cost of losing Austin Reaves raises questions about the long-term ramifications. For the Timberwolves, trading Gobert could kickstart a new era centered around Anthony Edwards and Reaves. As the NBA offseason heats up, all eyes will be on Los Angeles and Minnesota to see if this blockbuster deal comes to fruition.