The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly exploring a trade for either De’Andre Hunter or Miles Bridges, according to Hardwood Paroxysm on Substack. Sources indicated that Klutch Sports has expressed interest in moving Hunter through a potential Klutch-for-Klutch swap.
Hunter, 28, is in the third year of a four-year, $90 million contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, while Bridges, 27, is in the second year of a three-year, $75 million deal with the Charlotte Hornets. The proposed deals could see Hunter or Bridges joining the Lakers in exchange for players such as Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent or other trade considerations.
Los Angeles currently holds a 23-14 record, sitting fifth in the Western Conference. Luka Doncic leads the team, averaging 33.6 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 8.7 assists per game, while Austin Reaves contributes 26.6 points on 50.7% shooting. LeBron James, at 41, continues to play a key role with 22.0 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
The Lakers’ forward rotation could benefit from an addition like Hunter or Bridges. Hunter provides 13.9 points and 4.3 rebounds per game for Cleveland, shooting 42.5% from the field. Bridges averages 19.5 points and 6.4 rebounds for the Hornets.
The Hornets sit at 14-26 and the Cavaliers at 22-19 in the Eastern Conference. The Lakers’ front office may view either player as a potential piece to complement their stars and push for deeper playoff positioning.
Klutch Sports’ involvement adds a layer of intrigue. The agency has previously facilitated high-profile trades, and sources suggest that Hunter’s representation prefers a change of scenery, though nothing has been officially confirmed. Bridges’ situation appears similar, with the Hornets reportedly open to discussions if the right package arises.
Any trade would likely impact the Lakers’ current roster balance. Rui Hachimura contributes 12.7 points and 3.8 rebounds per game, while Gabe Vincent averages 5.1 points and 0.9 rebounds.
