The Los Angeles Lakers recently pulled off a blockbuster trade for Luka Doncic, sending Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round pick to the Dallas Mavericks. But the front office isn’t done wheeling and dealing just yet. With championship ambitions still in focus, the Lakers are now eyeing Kevon Looney and Gary Payton II from the Golden State Warriors.
According to ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel, the Los Angeles Lakers are closely monitoring Golden State’s roster. “Los Angeles is said to be paying attention to what the Golden State Warriors have planned, especially if they give up notable secondary players like Kevon Looney and Gary Payton II, sources said,” Siegel reported. “The Lakers would have interest in both players if traded.”
Why Kevon Looney and Gary Payton II are on the Los Angeles Lakers’ radar
Kevon Looney, a battle-tested big man, has a reputation for dominating the glass when it matters most. During the 2023 NBA Playoffs, he averaged a staggering 15.1 rebounds per game in the first-round matchup against Domantas Sabonis and the Kings. This season, he’s putting up 5.2 points and 6.7 rebounds, providing steady production for a Warriors squad fighting to stay in the playoff picture.
Los Angeles Lakers’ Luka Doncic speaks during an introductory NBA basketball press conference Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025, in El Segundo, Calif. (Image via AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
On the other hand, Gary Payton II is a defensive menace. At 32 years old, he’s still one of the most tenacious perimeter defenders in the league, routinely locking down elite scorers. He boasts a 111 defensive rating per 100 possessions and a 1.5 defensive box plus-minus, proving his value as a stopper and high-energy spark.
How the Lakers could benefit from acquiring Looney and Payton from the Golden State Warriors
Adding Kevon Looney and Gary Payton II would instantly boost the Los Angeles Lakers’ depth and defense. Looney would provide much-needed size and rebounding to help fill the void left by Anthony Davis, while Payton II would bring defensive toughness to the backcourt, replacing Christie’s presence. Plus, both have championship experience—an asset that could be invaluable alongside LeBron James and Doncic in a deep playoff run.
The big question is whether the Warriors are willing to part ways with them. Golden State is looking to stay competitive ahead of the February 6 trade deadline, which means the Los Angeles Lakers would need to offer serious value in return. Potential trade pieces include Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, or rookie Dalton Knecht.
Also read: LA Lakers Trade News: GM Rob Pelinka drops perfect adjective to describe Luka Doncic’s Lakers move; claims the trade was a game-changer in NBA history
The Lakers are running out of time to make a big choice. Will they step up and bolster their lineup with two proven champions? Or is Golden State going to hold? Both teams’ games could change in the next days.