US media suggests that the Lakers discuss 3-for-2 deals with the Magic! Send out three as bargaining chips and get Pope + Bitaze

As the 2025 NBA offseason countdown begins, teams are actively planning for the new season, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Orlando Magic are in a critical staffing phase. Eddie Bitar, a columnist of famous sports media Fadeaway world, suggested that the two teams might be able to explore a deal to solve their respective urgent needs. After a disappointing first-round defeat, the Lakers signed Luca Doncic, showing their determination to hit the championship. But their lineup currently has shortcomings and urgently needs to enhance their strength in shooting, defense and height. What about the Magic Team? Has a young core full of potential, but for the team to further develop, we are also seeking to increase the depth and experience of the lineup.

Based on the needs of both teams, Eddie Bitar presented a trade proposal, and the Lakers sent Jared Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht and Gabe Vincent, and won Kentavius ​​Calderon-Pope and Goga Bitaze of the Magic. If this plan can be achieved, both teams will have the opportunity to solve the current problem.

Let's take a look at the top 3D Pope, who is a two-time NBA champion and his strength cannot be underestimated. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 10.1 points per game and shot 40.6% from three-pointers. Although his data has declined this season, averaging 8.7 points per game and his three-point shooting percentage has dropped to 34.2%, he has rich championship experience and helped the Lakers win the championship in 2020. He is familiar with the Lakers system, which is a good reinforcement for the Lakers.

Let's talk about Bitaze again, he can add depth to the Lakers' frontcourt. He ranked eighth on the center block list and tenth from the field goal percentage when playing for the Magic in 2024-25. Whether it is defense at the basket or offensive end, his abilities can match the Lakers' existing lineup. After all, the Lakers had planned to sign center Mark Williams before, and Bitaze's arrival can meet this demand to a certain extent.

For the Magic, Vincent also has many benefits to introducing Jared Vanderbilt and Kneckett.

Vanderbilt has strong defense and good rebounds, which fits the Magic's defensive system. Although he averages 4.1 points and 5.1 rebounds per game, he is not outstanding, but he is full of energy and athleticism, and he can bring energy to the team when he goes on the court.

Kneckett, as a rookie, showed scoring potential for the Lakers, averaging 9.1 points per game and 37.6% from three-pointers. Against the Utah Jazz, he scored 37 points and made nine three-pointers to help the team win. His shooting ability can meet the Magic's needs to score and open up space on the outside.

Although Vincent averaged 6.1 points and 1.4 assists, he had playoff experience and performed stably in the point guard position. He performed poorly at the beginning of the season, but later improved his shooting percentage and became a reliable member of the Lakers; his ability to control the rhythm of the game is very important for the Magic's young backcourt. If this deal really works, it is quite suitable for both the Lakers and Magic. From the perspective of the Lakers, they now have superstars like Doncic, but their role player configuration is not perfect enough. Pope's arrival can strengthen the outside defense, and that three-pointer can also open up space, creating breakthroughs and shooting opportunities for Doncic and others. Bitaze can complement existing inside players in the interior and enhance the ability to confront and defensively in the interior. After these two people join, the Lakers will improve the integrity of the lineup and will have more confidence in competing for the championship in the new season.

From the perspective of external factors, the strong teams in the NBA are now frantically strengthening and the competition is becoming increasingly fierce. If the Lakers want to make a difference in the new season, it would be impossible not to improve the lineup quickly.

Let's take a look at the Magic team. There are many young players in the team and experienced players are needed to lead the area. Vanderbilt, Kneckett and Vincent are of the right age and have some experience. Vanderbilt's defensive and rebounding ability can set an example for young inside players; Knector's scoring ability can also enhance the team's offensive firepower. Vincent's experience in organizing and controlling the rhythm of the game can help the Magic's young defenders grow. From the long-term development of the team, this deal can make the Magic's lineup match more reasonable and young players can get a better growth environment.

So, for this potential trading plan of 3 for 2, you can really discuss it carefully for the Lakers and Magic teams, and maybe you can achieve a win-win situation?