Overview
- On his Game Over podcast, Klutch CEO Rich Paul suggested the Lakers trade Austin Reaves to the Grizzlies for Jaren Jackson Jr., framing it as roster balance and a defensive anchor play.
- LeBron James told ESPN that Paul’s views are his own and emphasized his strong relationship with Reaves, urging others not to read Paul’s comments as James’ stance.
- ESPN reported that Reaves’ agent Reggie Berry approached Paul at halftime of the Lakers’ win over the Hawks to discuss the public trade scenario.
- Reporters and at least one NBA executive criticized Paul’s remarks, and coverage noted prior podcast comments from Paul declaring the Lakers not title contenders.
- Reaves is sidelined with a calf/gastrocnemius strain and is widely expected to opt out of his $14.9 million option this summer, with reporting indicating no imminent move to trade him.