The entire focus of the Los Angeles Lakers' 2025 offseason is building a contender around Luka Dončić. If the Lakers follow the blueprint the Dallas Mavericks set, this means adding rim protection and lob threats. LeBron James and Jaxson Hayes were Luka's best lob options down the stretch of the season. This is an obvious problem for an aging LeBron and a center who became unplayable in the playoffs. With this in mind, all options are on the table, including potential trades.
Los Angeles has no shortage of potential contracts to move, with the biggest problem being finding a team willing to help the Lakers. The most attractive trade chips the Lakers could possibly offer are Rui Hachimura or Austin Reaves. While trading the offense of Reaves would be a mistake, the team could part ways with Rui in an effort to improve their defense and rebounding.
Lakers Could Send Rui Hachimura and a Protected First to Cleveland for Jarrett Allen
After Cleveland's shocking playoff exit, it is very possible the team is looking for a change. With Evan Mobley capable of guarding the rim, the Cavs could consider trading Allen for the right price. Rui offers a great shooting team yet another solid option who has had notable playoff moments. The deal makes sense for both sides if the Cavs are willing to put Mobley around the rim more often and part ways with Allen.
For the Lakers, this is an easy trade to get behind that both protects the rim and adds an elite lob threat for Luka. Adding Allen and one more threat at the center position would be more than enough to have Laker fans buying back into this team's championship ceiling.
It is easy to argue that the Lakers haven't seen the best version of Luka just yet. The veteran was obviously shell-shocked from the trade and needed time to learn a new offense. Not only this, but Austin Reaves and LeBron James were both demanding touches as well. This offseason is about figuring out how to get the best version of Luka and open the Los Angeles Lakers' championship window once again.
Trading for Jarrett Allen does just that while giving the Lakers one of the best starting five options in the league. If Cleveland considers the move, the Lakers shouldn't hesitate to get it done.