The Los Angeles Lakers are in the limelight with a proposed trade idea that could reshape their roster. According to Lake Show Life’s Josh Cornellisen, the Lakers might pursue Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels, a defensive-minded wing currently on a $131 million deal, while parting ways with Austin Reaves and Jarred Vanderbilt.
A Potential Trade on the Horizon
Cornellisen suggested a swap that would send Reaves and Vanderbilt to Minnesota in exchange for Jaden McDaniels and veteran forward Joe Ingles. The move would balance out both teams’ needs, giving the Los Angeles Lakers a defensive specialist while providing the Timberwolves with an additional offensive creator behind Mike Conley.
“(Austin) Reaves is the kind of player every team wants to keep around. That will change next summer, however, when he becomes a free agent and is in line for a massive payday,” Cornellisen said Monday.
Los Angeles Lakers’ Current Roster Construction
The Los Angeles Lakers already bolstered their lineup this offseason, bringing in Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and Jake LaRavia. They also acquired Luka Dončić to pair with LeBron James, creating a powerhouse duo capable of carrying much of the offensive load. With that foundation, Los Angeles is now seeking complementary pieces who can space the floor, defend multiple positions, and contribute without demanding the ball. McDaniels, at 6-foot-10 with elite defensive versatility, fits that mold.
Why Jaden McDaniels Makes Sense
Jaden McDaniels is signed to a cost-controlled four-year contract worth around $27 million per season. This makes him a reliable, long-term fit for the Lakers as they attempt to maximize their championship window with James and Dončić. He is widely regarded as one of the league’s best defenders, excelling both on the ball and in help situations. His ability to guard positions one through four would address a pressing need for Los Angeles, especially after being eliminated by the Timberwolves in last year’s playoffs.
McDaniels’ Strengths
• Spot-up shooting to stretch the floor
• Versatile defender on the perimeter and in the paint
• High basketball IQ, thrives in off-ball situations
• Long-term contract security
What the Timberwolves Gain
For Minnesota, the deal would bring in Reaves, a proven 20-point-per-game scorer, and Vanderbilt, a defensive forward who provides energy and rebounding. The Timberwolves would benefit from Reaves’ ability to handle the ball and create offense alongside Conley, giving them much-needed backcourt support.
Trade Breakdown
Lakers Receive Timberwolves Receive
Jaden McDaniels Austin Reaves
Joe Ingles Jarred Vanderbilt
At the moment, Reaves is serving as the Los Angeles Lakers’ third ball-handler behind Dončić and James. While his offensive skills are undeniable, his role may diminish in Los Angeles as the team transitions toward more defensive-oriented pieces. On the flip side, Jaden McDaniels’ fit seems almost tailor-made for this version of the Los Angeles Lakers. His off-ball impact and defensive reliability could be exactly what the team needs to take the next step toward an NBA title.
