The Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns are looking to enhance their center position this summer, and an intriguing championship-winning option has reportedly become available for trade.
Despite both teams making the playoffs in 2024, they were each eliminated in the first round, a disappointing outcome for squads featuring several aging future Hall-of-Famers.
Potential Brook Lopez Trade to the Los Angeles Lakers or Phoenix Suns
Brook Lopez would be a significant upgrade over the current centers for both the Lakers and Suns due to his winning experience, having contributed to the Bucks’ championship several years ago. Additionally, his ability to stretch the floor on offense and the fact that he is only under contract for one more season make him an attractive trade target. If the move doesn’t work out, both teams would have financial flexibility afterward.
Brook Lopez Trade to the Lakers
Lakers receive: Brook Lopez and MarJon Beauchamp
Bucks receive: Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and a future second-round pick
Since Lopez’s salary for next season is just over $23 million, the Lakers would likely need to send Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and a future second-round pick to Milwaukee to balance the trade.
Brook Lopez Trade to the Suns
Suns receive: Brook Lopez and MarJon Beauchamp
Bucks receive: Jusuf Nurkic, Nassir Little, and a future second-round pick
For the Suns, acquiring Lopez and Beauchamp could involve trading Nurkic, Nassir Little, and a future second-round pick. This trade would essentially swap centers and allow both teams to see if the players perform better in different systems.