The Los Angeles Lakers have actively reshaped their roster this offseason by signing free agents Marcus Smart, DeAndre Ayton, and Jake LaRavia, yet they are reportedly aiming to make another key transaction. Their chief priority is to enhance perimeter shooting and improve defense at the point of attack, which has led them to consider Charlotte Hornets wing Josh Green. Known for his defensive versatility and three-point shooting, Green appears to be the perfect fit for their needs. A proposed three-team trade involving the Lakers, Hornets, and Brooklyn Nets would bring Green back alongside his former Dallas Mavericks teammate, Luka Doncic, marking an exciting reunion for the pair.
Details of the Trade Proposal
Under this arrangement, the Lakers are set to receive Josh Green, while the Hornets would acquire Nic Claxton. Meanwhile, the Brooklyn Nets would be compensated with Dalton Knecht, Grant Williams, Gabe Vincent, and a 2027 first-round pick originally belonging to Charlotte. This deal aims to strengthen the Lakers’ backcourt and wing positions by adding a player who blends both offensive and defensive capabilities.
Impact of the Trade on Lakers’ Roster and Strategy
Dalton Knecht and Gabe Vincent struggled to secure significant minutes under Lakers head coach JJ Redick last season, particularly toward the playoffs, and could face similar challenges next season with Marcus Smart now on the roster. Adding Josh Green addresses a critical shortage at the backup wing spot, where the Lakers currently rely on Jarred Vanderbilt and Jake LaRavia to support starter Rui Hachimura, but seek greater depth in their frontcourt.
Eddie Bitar highlighted Green’s value, writing that
“The Lakers are bringing in a 6’5″ two-way wing in Josh Green, a player known for his gritty perimeter defense and timely shooting.”
He added,
“Last season, Green averaged a solid 7.4 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 1.6 APG, and a productive 1.1 steals per game, while sinking 39.1% from deep across 27.8 minutes per outing for Charlotte.”
Furthermore, Bitar noted,
“He’s the kind of energy guy who can shadow opposing wings and guards, chase them full court, and make life difficult late in games. Green’s fit with L.A. goes beyond numbers.”
Strong Bonds Between Luka Doncic and Josh Green
Beyond Green’s on-court skills, his prior experience playing alongside Luka Doncic on the Dallas Mavericks adds a valuable element to this trade. During their last two seasons together, Green excelled as a 39% three-point shooter with 1.7 made triples per 36 minutes, complementing Doncic’s offensive prowess. His defensive tenacity earned him starter minutes and praise from then-head coach Jason Kidd.
The friendship between Green and Doncic runs deep, with Green defending Doncic against critics and praising his conditioning and leadership.
“At the end of the day, he’s played World Cups, Olympics, back-to-back-to-back years,”
Green said of Doncic.
“You have to be in pretty good shape to be able to play that.”
He also stated,
“I think for someone to be 24 years old and be able to take a team to the Finals, it’s impressive. The last two years, he took a big leap being a leader. The guys really followed that.”
Green has expressed gratitude for Doncic’s support during his transition to a new environment, sharing,
“It’s great, man. I’ve been able to learn a lot from him. It’s been awesome to be around that and he’s done a great job this year being able to step up in that leader role.”
This deep mutual respect suggests Green will integrate smoothly with the Lakers, both on and off the court.
What This Trade Means for the Lakers’ Future
The acquisition of Josh Green through the Luka Doncic Lakers trade reunion represents a strategic and emotional boost for Los Angeles, adding needed depth and energizing a young core. Green’s defensive prowess and shooting ability provide the Lakers with a flexible wing who can contribute in critical moments, while his relationship with Doncic could enhance team chemistry and leadership dynamics.
As the Lakers continue to build their roster for the 2025-26 season, this proposed three-team trade demonstrates their commitment to strengthening perimeter defense and improving overall balance. If finalized, the reunion of Doncic and Green may prove pivotal in the Lakers’ pursuit of a championship, signaling a promising chapter for the franchise and its fans.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Luka Doncic a billionaire?
A. As of 2025, Luka Doncic’s estimated net worth is about $75 million, based on information from Celebrity Net Worth.
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A. DALLAS — The Artist of the Year on Spotify has been friends with someone for years. Recently, they released a new song mentioning Mavs player Luka Dončić.