NBA Trade Rumors: LeBron James’ ex- teammate zeroes in on Lakers as ideal landing spot amid Jazz’s buyout buzz

The LA Lakers are still one of the top destinations for any NBA player. This time, the team was mentioned as one of the top places that veteran player Kevin Love would want to go to. Love was traded to the Utah Jazz by the Miami Heat this offseason, and there could be a contract buyout agreement soon.

Love, who grew up in Santa Monica, California, could reunite with his former co-star, LeBron James. The two players were teammates with the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2014 to 2018. They were part of the 2016 championship team with All-Star guard Kyrie Irving.

Both players are at the twilight of their careers, and retirement is looming. Before Love’s career ends, however, he wants to play for LA. All he needs to do is finalize a buyout with the Jazz to make it all official.

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Aside from the Lakers, he was also allegedly interested in joining the New York Knicks. However, the Knicks have not shown the same delight in acquiring Love, according to NBA insider Brett Siegel's X post on Tuesday.

“Word around the league surrounding Love is that he wants to end up in Los Angeles, sources said," Siegel wrote. "There were some rumors that Love would want to go to New York, although there doesn't seem to be much interest brewing from the Knicks."

Love hasn't been the same star forward as he once was. Last season, he appeared in 23 games for the Heat, averaging 5.3 points and 4.1 rebounds. However, he still adds the veteran leadership that any contending team needs.

And when he's on the floor, he can provide toughness inside with his rebounding. Additionally, his ability to stretch the defense could help any team, like the Lakers.

Luka Doncic is focused on the Lakers

Dealing with a shocking trade is never easy. For Luka Doncic, he's gotten over the betrayal of the Dallas Mavericks and is focused on continuing his career with the Lakers. To demonstrate his commitment to playing for his new team, Doncic has even undergone noticeable physical changes.

Dan Woike of The Athletic asked Doncic's manager, Lara Beth Seager, a few questions as he prepares for the 2025-26 season.

"He's moved on," Seager said about his client.

"He’s only looking forward. And he’s here. He wants to get the best players here. He wants to win, and he knows it starts with him."

The Lakers know that they have a generational talent in Doncic. That is the reason they signed the five-time All-Star to a three-year, $165 million contract extension. The organization wants him to be the new face of the franchise and take over once LeBron James retires.

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Reign Amurao

Reign Amurao specializes in basketball at Sportskeeda, bringing 3 years of experience to his role and a Bachelor's Degree in Communication.

A fervent supporter of the Phoenix Suns, Reign was hooked to their electrifying "Seven-Seconds-Or-Less" offense, which epitomizes high-paced and high-intensity basketball. For Reign, Steve Nash is the ultimate floor general, and he believes Boris Diaw could've been the next Magic Johnson if he had a bit more discipline. 

From Reign's perspective, Anthony Edwards is a 90s player stuck in modern times, and Gregg Popovich is an ultimate winner with unparalleled success and leadership in the sport.

Reign's expertise lies in NBA history, particularly the significant moments and trends of the 2000s and 2010s. He prioritizes in-depth research using only credible sources to maintain accuracy in his articles, and avoids misleading topics.

Beyond basketball, Reign enjoys gaming with friends and watches comedy shows and films.

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