The Los Angeles Lakers first-round exit was not what many expected with a roster that featured LeBron James and Luka Doncic. But, that's the reality.
Now, the offseason is here, and the biggest question will be at the center position. After the Mark Williams trade was rescinded, the Lakers signed Alex Len, although that didn't work out.
Jaxson Hayes played fairly well, but he might not be the quality center the Lakers are hoping for in order to make a run through the Western Conference.
So, finding a center should be a top priority for Rob Pelinka and the Lakers.
Well, Bill Simmons of The Ringer had just the idea: Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid.
In a recent podcast appearance, Simmons laid out a trade proposal that would send Embiid to LA in exchange for a flurry of picks and players.
Simmons said the Lakers could give all of their expiring contracts: Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Dorian Finney-Smith and Maxi Kleber, as well as a first (or more).
“Here’s ALL of our expirings (Rui, DFS, Gabe, Kleber) and a [first-round pick] and we’ll get you out of the Joel Embiid business.”
Nice try Bill https://t.co/QCdI3vBns2 pic.twitter.com/TGwKCdMjvo
— 𝘼𝙫𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙘 (@Avonic_) May 5, 2025
Bill Simmons outlines a way for the Lakers to trade for Joel Embiid without giving up Austin Reaves 👀 pic.twitter.com/NYavFnxKIf— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) May 5, 2025
"That's my favorite Lakers move," Simmons added. "All their expirings and two first-round picks and they get Embiid. Reaves isn't in it. We don't know if Embiid's ever playing again."
As expected, fans weren't too on board with this, especially Lakers fans.
"A non-lob threat who’s never healthy? I respect Embiid but NAH!! I’m all the way good on this lol" one fan replied. "Delusional. LOL" a Thunder fan wrote.
"A trade for the Lakers only Bill Simmons could espouse," another replied.
"He’s a celtics fan. He knows this trade sets the Lakers back and prevents us from competing. If you’re a Lakers fan and like this trade you are a lost cause," another pointed out.
"I cannot sanction this buffoonery," another said.
Is Embiid talented? Sure. But he isn't healthy. He hasn't been healthy, and the Lakers' acquisition of Williams got rescinded because there was an issue with his physical.
So, the Lakers now turn and acquire Embiid, an injury-prone center? It definitely is a confusing proposal, especially with Simmons then adding, "We don't know if Embiid's ever playing again."
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