The NBA trade deadline is right around the corner, and Lakers fans are anxiously waiting for the front office to make moves to upgrade the roster. As well as LeBron James and Anthony Davis have been playing, the Lakers are clearly a move or two away from being true championship contenders, especially in the loaded Western Conference.
One of the players available on the trade market is the Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox. Last week, it was reported that the Kings officially put Fox on the trade block after he revealed a lack of desire to stay in Sacramento once his contract expires in the summer of 2026.
The Lakers were understandably floated as a potential landing spot as they could use another shot-creator and perimeter star. Plus, Fox's agent is Rich Paul, and the connection between the Lakers and Klutch Sports made it an obvious fit. That's why it was surprising when ESPN's Shams Charania reported that the Lakers weren't a preferred destination for Fox.
NBA insider Jake Fischer revealed one big reason why that was the case. Lakers guard Austin Reaves would be the "presumed top target" for Sacramento in a Fox deal and LA has made him virtually untouchable.
"Klutch knows, as sources tell The Stein Line, that the Lakers have zero intention of parting with Sacramento’s presumed top target in any Fox discussions: Austin Reaves."NBA insider Jake Fischer
The Lakers can beat any Fox offer the Kings will realistically receive. A package of Austin Reaves plus two first-round picks is a very strong offer. The Kings want to stay competitive, and replacing Fox with Reaves allows them to do that while also adding two premium draft assets.
The upgrade from Reaves to Fox is certainly worth exploring and giving up some draft capital. Without a guarantee that Fox will sign a long-term extension with the Lakers afterward, however, it is also a big risk. Considering LeBron James is in his 40s now, that may still be a risk worth taking.