Lakers Eyeing 27‑Year‑Old Celtics Champion Forward to Join LeBron and Luka?”
The Los Angeles Lakers—fresh off a seismic midseason acquisition of Luka Dončić—have signaled that their mission isn’t over: build a championship‑ready roster around their new superstar and aging legend, LeBron James. Now, in the wake of their early playoff exit, attention has turned toward a different end of the court: a 27‑year‑old Boston Celtics forward with a championship ring, poised to bolster Los Angeles’ perimeter game. Let’s explore the potential ramifications and what reports are speculating.
The Rumor: Who Is This 27‑Year‑Old Forward?
Recent whispers in the NBA rumor mill have pointed toward Sam Hauser—a versatile wing forward currently with the Celtics. At 27 (turning 28 this December), Hauser has already tasted championship glory with Boston in 2024 and brings a strong playmaking and shooting pedigree to the table The Times of India).
In the 2024–25 season, Hauser averaged 8.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, and notably shot 41.6% from three, embodying the floor-spacing threat that elite lineups covet .
Why He Makes Sense for the Lakers
- Floor Spacing & Offensive Flow
With Dončić commanding the ball and LeBron orchestrating the offense, the Lakers need sharpshooters who can keep defenses honest. Hauser fits that bill. - Championship Experience
He’s seasoned by deep playoff runs and championship success—a clutch asset for a team with serious title aspirations. - Salary Considerations
Hauser is under a four‑year, $45 million contract. While not cheap, this is far more manageable than a max‑contract star and offers solid team-friendly value (
Trade Feasibility: What Could the Lakers Offer?
Although details remain speculative, insiders suggest the Lakers could assemble a package that addresses both Boston’s cap concerns and roster needs. Possible return components may include:
- A young asset or two
- Salary‑matching pieces
- Draft consideration
Exact terms have not surfaced publicly, but the narrative emphasizes that any deal would need to be compelling enough for the Celtics to loosen their grip on a reliable role player (SI, The Times of India).
Broader Context: Lakers’ Trade Strategy
This reported interest in Hauser aligns with LA’s broader strategy: they’re evaluating interior upgrades, perimeter defenders, and versatile wings across the board. For example, speculation has also linked them to players like Jrue Holiday and Derrick White—each with defensive prowess and playoff experience that could shore up LA’s roster in different ways (The Times of India).
The Hauser angle is appealing precisely because he enhances floor spacing without commanding a high price tag, and he integrates seamlessly with the current playstyle of Dončić and LeBron.
Conclusion: High‑Ceiling, Low‑Risk Addition?
Sam Hauser may not headline trade rumors the way superstar names do, but that’s exactly what makes him intriguing—a complementary piece who checks off several boxes. At 27, with championship experience, elite shooting, and a reasonable contract, he represents a high‑ceiling, low‑risk opportunity for the Lakers to fortify their wings and maintain offensive potency.
As the Lakers navigate the 2025 offseason, Hauser’s name is one to watch—not because of the glamor, but because of the strategic fit. Could he be the silent upgrade that pushes L.A. from contender to champion? Only time—and trade negotiations—will tell.
