The Los Angeles Lakers appear poised to add much-needed shooting and defense in a newly proposed three-team trade that would send Phoenix Suns guard Grayson Allen to Los Angeles.
Jake Fischer of The Stein Line reported that Phoenix has been open to exploring trades involving Allen and Royce O’Neale as part of broader Kevin Durant discussions in order to cut into their luxury tax bill. “There has been a good bit of chatter this week about the Suns’ willingness to explore trades involving Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale as part of the Durant discussions, sources say, to reduce their tax bill further,” Fischer wrote.
Lakers Trade Rumors: Proposed Details
Gotta have the Latest from LA + LUKA Mind-meld
- Lakers receive: Grayson Allen
- Suns receive: Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, 2032 second-round pick (via LAL)
- Mavericks receive: N/A (salary balance in Kleber inclusion)
Siddhant Gupta of Fadeaway World floated the framework, pointing out that Allen would slide seamlessly into the Lakers’ rotation while Phoenix gains defensive depth and financial relief.
Why Allen Fits the Lakers
For Los Angeles, Allen brings exactly what they’ve lacked: a proven, high-volume shooter. Last season with Phoenix, the 29-year-old guard hit 42.6 percent from three on strong volume while averaging 10.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. His 60 percent effective field-goal rate ranked among the best for guards in the league.
Eddie Bitar emphasized how Allen’s presence would balance LAs lineup: “Putting Allen’s sniper touch alongside the playmaking of Luka Dončić and the interior presence of Deandre Ayton creates spacing the Lakers haven’t consistently had.” By stretching defenses, Allen opens driving lanes for LeBron James and Dončić while keeping opponents honest.
Why Phoenix Would Move Allen
For the Suns, this trade represents cap flexibility and rotation balance. Vincent, though coming off an injury-riddled year, offers toughness and ball-handling behind Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. Kleber adds size and defense in the frontcourt, while the second-round pick provides a low-cost future asset.
Bottom Line
The Lakers have already addressed defense with Marcus Smart and rim protection with Deandre Ayton. Shooting, however, remains their biggest gap. Adding Allen gives them a reliable perimeter threat to complement their stars, while Phoenix benefits from reshaping their roster and saving money. If the Suns are serious about cutting costs, this could be the kind of move that benefits both sides.