Lakers Eye Keon Ellis and Trade Rumors Heat Up Ahead of Deadline

As the Los Angeles Lakers approach the February 5, 2026 NBA trade deadline, they are actively exploring options to enhance their roster. Among their primary targets is Keon Ellis of the Sacramento Kings, who has been linked to the Lakers for some time. Recent reports indicate that the Lakers are seeking "bargain deals" to address their defensive shortcomings, with Ellis being a potential solution due to his athleticism and shooting ability. He boasts a career three-point shooting percentage of 41.5%, making him an attractive option for a team in need of perimeter defense and scoring support.

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In a proposed trade scenario, the Lakers would acquire Ellis along with Malik Monk and a 2029 first-round pick, while sending Rui Hachimura and Dalton Knecht to Sacramento. This trade idea reflects the Lakers' strategy of targeting players who can contribute immediately while managing their limited financial flexibility and draft assets.

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The Lakers have struggled recently, particularly in the absence of rising star Austin Reaves, who has been sidelined with a calf strain since Christmas. The team has gone 5-5 during this stretch, highlighting the need for reinforcements. General manager Rob Pelinka is under pressure to make impactful moves, especially given the team's current fifth seed in the Western Conference with a record of 24-14.

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The Lakers are also considering other players, such as Herb Jones from the New Orleans Pelicans and Jonathan Kuminga from the Golden State Warriors. However, acquiring these players may prove challenging due to the Lakers' limited trade assets, which include one tradable first-round pick and several expiring contracts.

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Adding to the Lakers' trade discussions, Rich Paul, the agent for LeBron James, stirred controversy by suggesting that the Lakers should trade Austin Reaves for Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies. This proposal has not been well-received within the organization, with reports indicating that some team members are unhappy with Paul's public comments. LeBron James clarified that Paul's views do not necessarily reflect his own, emphasizing the strong bond he shares with Reaves.

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Jackson himself reacted to the trade speculation, expressing skepticism about the seriousness of the proposal. He noted, “There’s just a lot of podcasts,” indicating that he did not take the trade suggestion seriously.

LeBron’s Agent Seeks Trade; Lakers Star’s Asking Price Disclosed

Critics of the Lakers' potential moves argue that trading a fan-favorite like Reaves could disrupt team chemistry, especially given his significant contributions this season. Reaves has emerged as a key player alongside James and Luka Doncic, averaging 26.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game. The Lakers' management, including team governor Jeanie Buss, has shown strong support for Reaves, complicating any potential trade discussions involving him.

LeBron’s Agent Seeks Trade; Lakers Star’s Asking Price Disclosed

As the trade deadline approaches, the Lakers must navigate their options carefully. With limited financial flexibility and a desire to maintain future cap space, they are likely to continue pursuing bargain deals that can bolster their roster without sacrificing key assets. The situation remains fluid, and the coming weeks will be critical in determining the direction the Lakers take as they aim for a championship run.

NBA Trade Rumors: Lakers Looking For ‘Bargain Deals’