A blockbuster move could reshape the Lakers’ future — and it all hinges on a Celtics veteran with championship DNA.
The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to make significant offseason changes after their disappointing first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves. With Luka Dončić already paired alongside LeBron James, the Lakers are reportedly targeting another major piece: Boston Celtics’ defensive maestro Jrue Holiday.
Why the Lakers Are Pushing for Change
The 2025 playoffs didn’t go to plan for LA. Despite Dončić’s midseason arrival and a solid finish to the regular season, the team lacked the defensive depth and veteran grit needed for a deep run. With Anthony Davis now gone, the Lakers are retooling — and Holiday might be the ideal missing piece.
The Trade Package on the Table
To land the 2-time NBA champion and 6-time All-Defensive Team guard, the Lakers are reportedly willing to part with:
- Austin Reaves (20.2 PPG scorer and fan favorite)
- Dalton Knecht (promising rookie forward)
- Jarred Vanderbilt (defensive specialist)
- Future draft picks
That’s a hefty offer — but Rob Pelinka and the front office see Holiday as the glue player who can elevate this team to title contention.
Why Jrue Holiday?
Holiday, 34, remains one of the league’s elite perimeter defenders. In 62 games for Boston this season, he averaged:
- 11.1 points
- 4.3 rebounds
- 3.9 assists
- Plus, elite defensive metrics across the board
He also brings leadership, playoff experience, and the ability to take pressure off both Dončić and James on both ends of the floor.
Celtics’ Financial Squeeze Could Force a Deal
Boston may be on the brink of back-to-back NBA titles, but behind the scenes, financial strain is mounting. With multiple aging stars and massive contracts on the books, insiders believe the Celtics may explore trades to reshape their roster — and Holiday could be among the names available.
Shams Charania recently said on The Pat McAfee Show:
“The rest of the league is bracing for some level of change to the Celtics’ roster this offseason.”
This gives LA a golden chance to strike.
What This Means for the Lakers’ Title Hopes
If the Lakers land Holiday, they’ll form a formidable trio:
- LeBron James (still elite at 40)
- Luka Dončić (MVP candidate)
- Jrue Holiday (lockdown defender and floor general)
Add in solid depth and role players, and LA could seriously challenge for its 18th championship in 2025-26.