Ranking The Los Angeles Lakers' Most Valuable Trade Assets

Heading into the 2024 offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers were looking to bounce back after a disappointing playoff exit against the Denver Nuggets. Despite not making any major signings so far, the front office is actively exploring trade options to improve their roster. With LeBron James approaching 40 and the Western Conference becoming increasingly competitive, the Lakers need to maximize their current assets to stay in contention. Rumors have linked the team to several potential trade targets as they seek to add depth and versatility around their star players.

When it comes to the Lakers, it's clear that LeBron James, Anthony Davis , Bronny James, and Dalton Knecht are untouchable. They form the core of the team's future plans and won't be going anywhere. Here's a look at who they might consider moving and why these assets hold significant value.

1. Austin Reaves - $12.9 Million Contract

Salary 2024-25: $12.9 million

Salary 2025-26: $13.9 million

Salary 2026-27: $14.9 million

Austin Reaves has become one of the Lakers' most exciting young players. He went from being undrafted to a key part of the team, and it’s been awesome to watch. He’s got a great mix of skills that make him valuable not only to the Lakers but also as a potential trade asset for other teams looking for a versatile guard.

Reaves signed a four-year, $56 million deal with the Lakers in the summer of 2023. This contract shows just how much faith the team has in him and his potential. The deal is structured to be very team-friendly, with his salary increasing each year but staying manageable under the cap. This makes Reaves not only a valuable player on the court but also a smart piece in any trade talks.

In the 2023-24 season, Reaves really stepped up his game. He averaged 15.9 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.3 rebounds in 82 games. His basketball IQ is off the charts, and he’s great at making clutch plays. Whether he’s handling the ball, creating shots, or hitting three-pointers, Reaves is a dynamic offensive player.

Defensively, he’s no slouch either. Reaves can guard multiple positions thanks to his size and agility. He often takes on the challenge of defending the other team’s best perimeter player. His hustle, smart positioning, and quick hands lead to a lot of steals and deflections. This defensive versatility is highly valued in today’s NBA, making him an attractive trade asset.

Financially, Reaves' contract adds to his appeal. With salaries of $12.9 million, $13.9 million, and $14.9 million over the next three seasons, he’s a bargain for what he brings to the table. This makes it easier for other teams to fit him into their salary cap without too much hassle. For the Lakers, Reaves is both a valuable player now and a strong bargaining chip for future trades, thanks to his skills, potential, and favorable contract.

2. D'Angelo Russell - $18.7 Million Contract

Salary 2024-25: $18.6 million (Player Option)

Salary 2025-26: Free Agent

D'Angelo Russell is a key asset for the Lakers as they navigate the 2024 offseason. Known for his smooth shooting and playmaking skills, Russell rejoined the Lakers in 2023 and quickly established himself as a critical piece of the team's backcourt. His veteran presence and offensive versatility make him an attractive trade option for teams looking to add scoring and experience.

Russell recently exercised his player option for the 2024-25 season , securing an $18.6 million salary. This means he will remain under contract with the Lakers for another year before becoming an unrestricted free agent in 2025. His decision to opt-in provides the Lakers with a valuable asset that could be used in potential trade deals. This player option also adds flexibility, making him a significant piece for any trade talks the Lakers might engage in.

In the 2023-24 season, Russell averaged 18.0 points, 6.3 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game. His ability to score from all three levels—inside, mid-range, and beyond the arc—makes him a dynamic offensive threat. Additionally, his playmaking skills help facilitate the offense, creating opportunities for his teammates and providing a steady hand in critical moments. Despite his offensive prowess, Russell's defense has often been a topic of discussion, but his experience and basketball IQ allow him to make smart plays and contribute defensively.

There have been numerous rumors about Russell's future with the Lakers. R eports suggest that the team might look to trade him to acquire a player who better complements LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Potential trade partners include the Chicago Bulls and the Miami Heat, both of which could benefit from an experienced guard like Russell. His expiring contract makes him an even more attractive trade asset, as teams can use his salary to match in deals for high-caliber players while planning for future cap space.

3. Rui Hachimura - $17.0 Million Contract

Salary 2024-25: $17.0 million

Salary 2025-26: $18.3 million

Rui Hachimura has solidified his role with the Lakers, bringing a mix of scoring, defense, and versatility. After joining the Lakers from the Washington Wizards in a mid-season trade during the 2022-23 campaign, he quickly became a key player. His contributions on both ends of the court have made him a valuable asset, especially with his current contract.

In the 2023-24 season, Hachimura averaged 13.4 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. His ability to score from various spots on the floor, including mid-range and three-point range, makes him a versatile offensive threat. Defensively, his size and athleticism allow him to guard multiple positions effectively, which adds significant value to his overall game.

Hachimura's contract, a three-year, $51 million deal signed in the summer of 2023, includes a salary of $17.0 million for the 2024-25 season and $18.3 million for the 2025-26 season. This contract structure is team-friendly, making it easier for other teams to incorporate him into their salary cap without substantial financial strain. This financial flexibility enhances his attractiveness in trade discussions.

Rumors have been circulating about the Lakers potentially including Hachimura in trade packages. Reports suggest that the Lakers have explored various trade scenarios involving him, D'Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Gabe Vincent. The team has shown interest in players like Brook Lopez and Jerami Grant, indicating their willingness to use Hachimura as a key piece to acquire another high-impact player.

Financially, Hachimura’s contract provides excellent value relative to his production and potential. This makes him an appealing trade asset for teams looking to add a young, versatile forward who can contribute immediately and grow with the team. For the Lakers, leveraging Hachimura in trade talks could be a strategic move to bring in complementary pieces around their core of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, aiming for a deeper playoff run next season.

4. Jarred Vanderbilt - $10.7 Million Contract

Salary 2024-25: $10.7 million

Salary 2025-26: $11.6 million

Salary 2026-27: $12.4 million

Jarred Vanderbilt has carved out a niche for himself as a high-energy player with a relentless motor. Since joining the Lakers from the Utah Jazz in a trade during the 2022-23 season, he has been a crucial part of the team’s defensive strategy. Known for his ability to guard multiple positions, Vanderbilt’s versatility on the court is invaluable.

During the 2023-24 season, Vanderbilt's performance was hampered by injuries, limiting him to just 29 games. Despite these challenges, he managed to average 5.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. His impact on the floor goes beyond these stats, as his defensive acumen and ability to secure rebounds provide the Lakers with a much-needed presence in the paint and on the perimeter.

Vanderbilt's current contract is quite favorable. Signed to a four-year, $46.4 million deal in the summer of 2023, his annual salaries of $10.7 million, $11.6 million, and $12.4 million in the upcoming seasons make him a cost-effective asset. This contract structure makes him attractive not only to the Lakers but also to potential trade partners looking for a versatile defender who can contribute without a hefty price tag.

Following the 2023-24 season, the Lakers explored options to trade Vanderbilt , aiming to adjust their roster around their core stars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The team was looking to move him as part of their strategy to find better fits that could complement their leading players more effectively. His defensive skills, coupled with a team-friendly contract, made him a prime candidate for these discussions.

5. Jalen Hood-Schifino - $3.9 Million Contract

Salary 2024-25: $3.9 million

Salary 2025-26: $4.1 million

Salary 2026-27: $6.2 million

Jalen Hood-Schifino, drafted 17th overall by the Lakers in 2023, faced a challenging rookie season as he adjusted to the NBA. His performance with the Lakers was limited, averaging 1.6 points, 0.6 rebounds, and 0.4 assists in 21 games. These numbers reflect the limited minutes and opportunities he had on a veteran-heavy Lakers squad, as well as his time spent developing in the G-League.

Despite the modest stats, Hood-Schifino showed flashes of potential in the G-League, where he had more playing time and a chance to refine his skills. In the G-League, he demonstrated his ability to handle the ball, create plays, and defend multiple positions. This development time was crucial for him, allowing him to gain confidence and experience that he couldn't fully acquire in the NBA due to limited minutes.

The Lakers view Hood-Schifino as a long-term project with significant upside. His contract, structured under the rookie scale, is financially favorable for the team. He is set to earn $3.9 million in 2024-25, $4.1 million in 2025-26, and $6.2 million in 2026-27 if the Lakers pick up the option. This low-cost contract makes him an appealing trade asset, offering potential without a substantial salary burden.

While Hood-Schifino's initial NBA stats might not turn heads, his development trajectory and skill set suggest he could become a valuable player in the league. The Lakers have been exploring trade options to better support their current stars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Including Hood-Schifino in a trade package could entice other teams looking to invest in young talent with high potential.

Related: The Lakers Land Nikola Vucevic In A Simple Mock Trade With The Bulls

6. Max Christie - $7.1 Million Contract

Salary 2024-25: $7.1 million

Salary 2025-26: $7.7 million

Salary 2026-27: $8.3 million

Salary 2027-28: $8.9 million (Player Option)

Max Christie, a second-round pick from the 2022 NBA Draft, has shown potential as a valuable asset for the Lakers. Known for his defensive abilities and emerging offensive skills, Christie has continued to develop his game, making him a key piece in the Lakers' future plans.

In the 2023-24 season, Christie averaged 4.2 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 0.9 assists in 67 games. While these stats might not be spectacular, they reflect his growing role on the team and his potential for further development. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute as a 3-and-D player makes him a valuable asset on the court.

Christie’s brand new $32 million contract extension and his potential make him a critical asset for the Lakers. His defensive skills, emerging offensive abilities, and team-friendly contract position him as an attractive piece in potential trade negotiations, supporting the Lakers' goal of building a championship-contending roster.

Even as the Lakers keep exploring ways to improve the roster, Christie’s availability in trade talks has reportedly been minimal since the team just locked him up to a future contract, and the franchise already signaled big expectations from their young gem in upcoming seasons.

7. Gabe Vincent - $11.0 Million Contract

Salary 2024-25: $11.0 million

Salary 2025-26: $11.5 million

Salary 2026-27: $11.5 million

Gabe Vincent joined the Lakers in the summer of 2023, signing a three-year, $33 million contract. Known for his defensive tenacity and clutch shooting, Vincent was expected to bring valuable experience and stability to the Lakers' backcourt. However, his season was significantly impacted by injuries, limiting his contributions on the court.

In the 2023-24 season, Vincent averaged 3.1 points, 1.9 assists, and 0.8 rebounds per game over just 11 games. His shooting percentages reflected his struggles, with 30.6% from the field and 10.7% from three-point range. These numbers were a far cry from his performance in previous seasons, particularly with the Miami Heat, where he was known for his reliable shooting and solid defensive efforts.

Vincent’s contract, which pays him $11.0 million in 2024-25 and $11.5 million in each of the following two seasons, is seen as a significant financial commitment for a player whose performance has drastically declined. Unlike expiring contracts, which teams often find attractive due to the salary cap relief they provide, Vincent’s deal extends for another two seasons, making him a less appealing trade target. His recent struggles make it unlikely that teams will be willing to take on his contract without additional incentives.

After the 2023-24 season, the Lakers have been actively exploring trade options to enhance their roster around superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis. However, Vincent's poor performance and substantial contract make him a challenging player to move. His potential to bounce back seems limited, and his contract is a gamble that few teams are willing to take.

8. Christian Wood - $3.0 Million Contract

Salary 2024-25: $3.0 million (Player Option)

Salary 2025-26: Free Agent

Christian Wood joined the Lakers on a two-year, $5.7 million deal, with a player option for the second year. Known for his scoring ability and versatility as a big man, Wood was expected to provide significant offensive contributions to the Lakers' frontcourt. However, his performance and impact have been mixed, raising questions about his long-term fit with the team.

In the 2023-24 season, Wood averaged 6.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game over 50 games. His shooting percentages saw a decline, with 42.9% from the field and 30.8% from three-point range. These numbers represent a drop from his previous seasons, highlighting his inconsistency and struggles to adapt fully to his role on the Lakers.

Wood’s contract, which includes a $3.0 million player option for the 2024-25 season, presents a challenge for the Lakers. His performance has not lived up to expectations, and the contract, although modest, is not an expiring deal that could provide immediate financial relief. Teams may be hesitant to trade for Wood given his recent form and the financial commitment involved for the next season, as he won’t be on the salary books for 2025 and will become a free agent.

9. Jaxson Hayes - $2.4 Million Contract

Salary 2024-25: $2.4 million (Player Option)

Salary 2025-26: Free Agent

Jaxson Hayes was signed by the Lakers on a two-year, $4.6 million deal, with a player option for the second year. Known for his athleticism and potential as a rim protector, Hayes was expected to add energy and defensive presence to the Lakers' frontcourt.

During the 2023-24 season, Hayes struggled to find his rhythm, averaging 4.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 0.5 assists in 70 games. His inconsistent performance and limited playing time raised concerns about his fit within the team’s system and his overall development.

Hayes' contract, which includes a $2.4 million player option for the 2024-25 season, doesn't offer much flexibility for the Lakers in terms of trade value. Given his underwhelming performance and the relatively small salary, it might be challenging for the Lakers to find a team willing to take a chance on him without additional incentives.

The Lakers are looking to optimize their roster around LeBron James and Anthony Davis, but Hayes' inconsistent contributions and defensive lapses make him a less appealing trade asset. His potential remains, but teams may be wary of his ability to deliver consistent performances at the NBA level.

10. Cam Reddish - $2.4 Million Contract

Salary 2024-25: $2.4 million (Player Option)

Salary 2025-26: Free Agent

Cam Reddish was brought onto the Lakers roster with hopes that his athleticism and scoring ability could provide a spark off the bench. Signed on a two-year, $4.9 million deal with a player option for the second year, Reddish aimed to revive his career after stints with the Atlanta Hawks, New York Knicks, and Portland Trail Blazers.

In the 2023-24 season, Reddish averaged 5.4 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game over 48 games. His shooting was inconsistent, with percentages of 38.9% from the field and 33.6% from beyond the arc. Despite his potential, these numbers show that Reddish struggled to find a consistent role and impact within the Lakers' rotation.

Reddish's contract includes a $2.4 million player option for the 2024-25 season. This modest contract makes him a low-risk financial commitment, but his inconsistent performance limits his trade value. Teams might hesitate to acquire Reddish due to his inability to establish himself as a reliable contributor at the NBA level.

While Reddish's potential and athleticism are appealing, his inconsistent play and lack of defensive impact make him less attractive as a trade asset. Teams looking for a proven, consistent player might pass on Reddish, viewing him as a project rather than an immediate contributor.

Related: Comparison Of Lakers Potential Targets: Lauri Markkanen vs. Jerami Grant vs. Cam Johnson