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Celtics-Lakers blockbuster trade idea would solve massive roster issue for LA | Sporting News

Updated May 8, 2025, 5:35 p.m. by Colin Keane 1 min read
NBA News

A blockbuster trade between the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers this summer could reshape both franchises.

The proposed deal would see Boston send a former No.

4 overall pick and 2018 All-Star to the Lakers in exchange for Maxi Kleber, Dalton Knecht, and Dorian Finney-Smith (assuming Finney-Smith exercises his $15.4 million player option).

This trade could address a roster need for the Lakers while easing Bostons salary cap constraints.

The Trade Lakers receive...

Kristaps Porzingis ($30.7M expiring) Celtics receive...

Dalton Knecht (2 years, $10.7M) Maxi Kleber ($11M expiring) Dorian Finney-Smith ($15.4M expiring) Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp For the Celtics, trading Porzingis, who has represented a key piece in their vision of a dynasty, would be a tough but strategic move.

Porzingis is arguably the most talented stretch five in basketball, but his injury history raises concerns.

Boston would gain depth and financial flexibility in this deal.

Kleber, a stretch big, provides frontcourt spacing.

Finney-Smith, a rock-solid 3-and-D wing, bolsters perimeter defense.

Knecht, a sharpshooting guard, brings a ton of scoring upside and would fit like a glove in Bostons system of endless three-point attempts.

This trio would strengthen Bostons bench considerably.

For the Lakers, Porzingis would be a game-changer alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic, provided Luka and KP could move past the alleged beef they had with each other on the Dallas Mavericks.

KPs floor spacing and rim protection would make him an excellent basketball fit to be LAs third star.

However, parting with Finney-Smiths two-way play and Knechts potential is a steep price.

The Lakers would need to weigh Porzingis injury risks against his fit in their championship window.

Financially, this trade works, and it's deal that could spark intriguing roster evolution for two NBA powerhouses.

More NBA: Pistons trade package for Celtics star Jaylen Brown would look like this.

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