- Rich Paul publicly recommended the Lakers target Jaren Jackson Jr., even if it means trading Austin Reaves.
- Jackson offers elite rim protection and a Defensive Player of the Year resume; Reaves is having a career season.
- The proposal ties into broader Memphis trade chatter around Ja Morant and leaves the Lakers with a tough decision before the deadline.
Rich Paul floats blockbuster trade idea
Rich Paul, agent to LeBron James, told the Game Over Podcast the Los Angeles Lakers should consider trading Austin Reaves to the Memphis Grizzlies for Jaren Jackson Jr. Paul framed the move as a way to shore up the Lakers’ defense and give the team a stronger shot at a title.
The Lakers sit 23-13 and fifth in the Western Conference, but recent defensive struggles have shown up in their 4-6 run over the last 10 games. Paul said a defensive anchor like Jackson would pair well with the Lakers’ stars and upgrade the team’s ability to protect the paint.
Why Jaren Jackson Jr. would matter
Jackson is a two-time All-Star, the NBA’s block leader and the league’s Defensive Player of the Year for 2022-23. His shot-blocking and rim deterrence would provide the Lakers with interior defense they currently lack.
“If you’re building around Luka, you need that anchor. Jaren doesn’t want to be a part of a rebuild,” Paul said on the podcast, highlighting Jackson’s desire to compete now and the strategic fit alongside star perimeter players.
The Austin Reaves dilemma
Paul acknowledged the trade would likely require sending Austin Reaves to Memphis as the centerpiece of the package. That presents a major dilemma for the Lakers. Reaves, now in his fifth season, is enjoying a career year and has become a fan favorite for his scoring, playmaking and chemistry with the roster.
“There’s a world where you can do what’s best for your team, and you can do what’s best for Austin. Because Austin deserves to get paid,” Paul said, adding that Memphis would likely offer Reaves a larger role and more touches — potentially making him the Grizzlies’ lead guard if Ja Morant were moved.
Context: Ja Morant trade rumors and timing
The timing of Paul’s suggestion matters. Reports that the Grizzlies are entertaining offers for Ja Morant have added urgency to potential franchise-level changes in Memphis. If Morant is moved, Reaves could be an attractive replacement as a steady scorer and leader.
For the Lakers, the choice is straightforward in theory but complicated in practice: trade an emerging homegrown star and chemistry piece for an elite defensive big who could push the team deeper in the playoffs, or keep Reaves and preserve continuity.
With the trade deadline approaching, the league will be watching whether the Lakers explore radical upgrades. Any move involving Jackson, Reaves or Morant would reshape both franchises and reverberate across the Western Conference.
Keep an eye on official team statements and follow-up reporting as the deadline nears — proposals from agents often start conversations, but front offices control the final outcome.
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