Los Angeles Lakers Trade Rumors: Latest Reporting Shares Big Update On Nikola Vucevic and Jonas Valanciunas Pursuit

According to Los Angeles Lakers insider Jovan Buha, the team’s interest in acquiring centers Nikola Vucevic and Jonas Valanciunas may be diminishing.

Buha reported that during the trade negotiations for Dorian Finney-Smith, he observed a cooling of interest in both Vucevic and Valanciunas. This suggests that the Lakers may be exploring alternative options to address their frontcourt needs.

Los Angeles Lakers Not ‘High’ on Nikola Vucevic; ‘Cooled on’ Jonas Valanciunas

NBA: Washington Wizards at Los Angeles Clippers
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The Lakers trade interest in acquiring Jonas Valanciunas predates recent discussions. In June, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported that LeBron James expressed a willingness to take a pay cut to facilitate the acquisition of “an established big man to play alongside Davis,” with Valanciunas specifically mentioned as a potential target.

Valanciunas ultimately signed a three-year deal with the Washington Wizards in July, effectively removing him from the Lakers’ potential trade targets.

While Valanciunas has played effectively for the Wizards this season, his recent performance against the Lakers, where he scored eight points on 4-of-6 shooting, may not have been particularly encouraging for the Lakers’ front office.

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Furthermore, the cost of acquiring Valanciunas could be a significant obstacle for the Lakers. Reports suggest that a potential trade may involve including guard Gabe Vincent in the deal, a price that the Lakers may be unwilling to pay.

“I think Gabe is more valuable than JV, and you potentially have to give up assets, like Gabe and two seconds. I think the Lakers lose that trade, to be honest,” Buha said.

NBA: Chicago Bulls at Portland Trail Blazers
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Lakers’ pursuit of a center to complement Anthony Davis has been well-documented, with Nikola Vučević repeatedly mentioned as a potential target. Davis has publicly expressed his desire to play more at the power forward position, necessitating the acquisition of a traditional center.

However, recent reports suggest that the Lakers may not actively pursue Vucevic. NBA insider Marc Stein reported that the Lakers are “not expected to join the hunt” for the Chicago Bulls center due to a combination of factors.

Firstly, the cost of acquiring Vucevic is a significant concern. The Bulls are expected to demand a substantial return, likely including a first-round draft pick. Secondly, absorbing Vucevic’s $21.5 million salary in 2025-26 would present a significant financial challenge for the Lakers, who are projected to have a significant portion of their salary cap occupied by LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

While the Lakers have shown a willingness to improve their roster, they are also mindful of their long-term financial health. Following the acquisition of Finney-Smith, the team has made progress in reducing its luxury tax burden. This recent success has likely encouraged a more cautious approach to future acquisitions, as the Lakers aim to avoid exceeding the second apron and incurring further financial penalties.

Despite these challenges, the Lakers trade focus remains on maintaining their position in the Western Conference playoff race. With a current record of 26-18, they are striving to secure a top-six seed and avoid the play-in tournament.

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