The Los Angeles Lakers might have missed out on Jonathan Kuminga, who signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves. But that move only opened the door for L.A. to revitalize its efforts for P.J. Washington from the Dallas Mavericks, and now an NBA insider has dropped a three-team trade framework that could actually get it done. This isn’t just some casual talk, either. Washington has been on the Lakers’ radar for a long time, and even Luka Doncic himself voiced a preference for the forward!
The Maverick’s Headache: Why This Three-Team Deal Is The Only Play
Dallas has been playing hard to get, openly not in favor of trading Washington. So how do you get them to even *consider* negotiations? NBA insider Jake Weinbach’s framework brings in a crucial third party, because frankly, it’s the only viable approach. Weinbach’s proposal has the Lakers receiving P.J. Washington. The Mavericks, in turn, would get Jaden Hardy, Adou Thiero, a 2032 first-round pick swap from L.A., and a 2032 second-round pick swap from Washington via L.A. Then, to make the money work, the Chicago Bulls step in as the mediator, taking Jake LaRavia.
Why the three-team madness? Even though the Mavs are below the tax line with a payroll of $184.9 million, they’re rebuilding. They do not want to absorb more contracts. Enter the Bulls, with their ample cap space, ready to facilitate and snag a low-cost wing in LaRavia to solidify their depth. Weinbach’s plan looks solid on paper, making sense for every squad involved.
P.J. Washington: The Missing Piece L.A. Has Been Chasing
For the Lakers, pulling off this deal isn’t just rational, it’s absolutely ideal. Think about it: they still lack a starting-caliber wing, especially with Rui Hachimura gone this summer. That’s a massive hole, right? Washington fits the bill perfectly. He’s a reliable wing, packing rebounding upside and serious two-way capability. He’s got the size to battle in the paint for boards against bigs, but also the athleticism to guard on the perimeter. Plus, he’s a genuine lob threat! Last season, this guy was putting up serious numbers: 14.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.0 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game, all while shooting 45.0% from the field. Those aren’t just good stats; they’re exactly what the Lakers need.
This isn’t just about shuffling pieces, this is about the Lakers’ future. Landing Washington would be a huge statement, transforming their wing depth and giving them a versatile weapon who can impact both ends of the floor. The question now isn’t *if* the Lakers need him, it’s *when* this wild trade framework becomes a reality. This is the kind of move that sets up a contender for the long haul.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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