Title: “Reaves to Dallas: Why a Trade for Lively and P.J. Washington Could Reshape the Lakers’ Future”
In the ever-volatile NBA landscape, bold trades are often the spark that ignites championship aspirations. One such intriguing scenario gaining traction is a potential trade between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks that would send Austin Reaves and Shake Milton to Dallas in exchange for Dereck Lively II and P.J. Washington.
Though not confirmed or heavily rumored in mainstream media, such a deal opens fascinating possibilities for both franchises. Here’s a deep dive into how this trade could work, the rationale behind it for both teams, and what it could mean for the future.
Trade Proposal:
Los Angeles Lakers receive:
- Dereck Lively II
- P.J. Washington
Dallas Mavericks receive:
- Austin Reaves
- Shake Milton
Why the Lakers Would Do It
1. The Search for a Legitimate Center
For the past few seasons, the Lakers have struggled to find a stable and athletic big man who can play alongside or back up Anthony Davis. Dereck Lively II checks every box — a young, rim-protecting, high-IQ center with a motor. His impact as a rookie with Dallas was immediate, showing poise far beyond his age and becoming a key defensive anchor during the Mavericks’ 2024 playoff run.
In L.A., Lively could slot in as the long-term solution at the 5, freeing Davis to play more power forward, where he’s more comfortable and effective. The Lakers have tried multiple center options, but none with Lively’s combination of length, vertical spacing, and defensive instincts.
2. P.J. Washington: Underrated Two-Way Piece
Washington is another win-now player who fits beautifully into the Lakers’ system. He brings floor-spacing, switchable defense, and scoring versatility. His ability to play both forward spots would give the Lakers flexibility to go small or big depending on the matchup. Washington averaged 12.9 points and 5.6 rebounds last season while shooting 34% from deep — not elite, but respectable enough to stretch defenses.
With LeBron James aging and the Lakers in win-now mode, adding ready contributors like Lively and Washington makes strategic sense.
3. Selling High on Reaves
Austin Reaves is a fan favorite and a solid young talent, but there’s reason to believe the Lakers may have reached the peak of his trade value. While Reaves’ playmaking and midrange game are impressive, his defense has been inconsistent, and he has struggled at times against top-tier opponents. His current contract (4 years, $53.8 million) is movable, and trading him now could bring back more value than waiting.
By flipping Reaves and Shake Milton, the Lakers could rebalance their roster and solve long-standing frontcourt issues.
Why the Mavericks Would Do It
1. Adding a Playmaker and Scorer
Dallas has two superstars in Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, but their success in the playoffs exposed a need for more consistent shot creation and playmaking off the bench. Austin Reaves fills that role beautifully. He can handle secondary ball-handling duties, run pick-and-rolls, and offer scoring versatility in half-court sets.
Reaves is also a high-IQ player who thrives off ball — making him an excellent fit next to Luka. His 2023-24 season saw him average 15.9 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game while shooting over 48% from the field. In a Mavericks system with better spacing, Reaves could thrive even more.
2. Cap and Contract Considerations
P.J. Washington is on a long-term deal (3 years, ~$46 million), while Lively is on a rookie-scale contract. The Mavericks might prefer to flip these assets to improve backcourt depth while trimming future payroll flexibility.
Shake Milton, though not a major piece, adds an extra combo guard with playoff experience, providing depth behind Irving and Dončić.
3. Making Room for Veteran Centers
With Lively gone, the Mavericks could pursue a veteran big man to support Dončić and Irving. It’s no secret Dallas has flirted with the idea of adding experienced centers like Jonas Valančiūnas or a reunion with Dwight Powell in a smaller role. This move opens that door.
Potential Risks and Rewards
For the Lakers:
- Risk: Giving up Reaves could backfire if Lively doesn’t develop into a long-term starter or if Washington doesn’t deliver.
- Reward: They get frontcourt stability and depth — exactly what they’ve lacked. Lively’s defense and Washington’s versatility offer the potential to make a deep playoff run.
For the Mavericks:
- Risk: Losing Lively’s defense could leave them vulnerable in the paint.
- Reward: They add a creative scorer and a ball handler who complements Luka and Kyrie. If Reaves thrives in Dallas, this could be a steal.
Conclusion: A Win-Win Scenario?
Trades like this are rare — ones where both teams potentially walk away better. The Lakers get size, youth, and frontcourt balance. The Mavericks boost their perimeter rotation and relieve a logjam in the frontcourt.
While it’s not a blockbuster on paper, this hypothetical deal could reshape the playoff futures of both franchises. With the Western Conference loaded with competition, every smart adjustment counts. This trade might just be the kind of subtle shift that propels one team deeper into contention while keeping the other competitive for the long haul.
