Lakers Reportedly Eyeing Warriors Veteran in LeBron-Centered Trade

NBA writer suggests Lakers could acquire Harrison Barnes and other assets in deal involving LeBron James

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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According to a report, the Los Angeles Lakers are interested in acquiring a 33-year-old Golden State Warriors veteran in a potential trade centered around LeBron James. Sports Illustrated's Mark Morales-Smith believes the Lakers could land Harrison Barnes, Jeremy Sochan, and a first-round pick from the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for LeBron and his son Bronny James.

Why it matters

The Lakers are looking to build a roster that can compete both now and in the future, and acquiring young talent like Barnes and Sochan could help them do that. Barnes is a respected veteran who has experience playing alongside rising star Luka Doncic, and the draft pick could be used to further bolster the Lakers' roster.

The details

Barnes was a key part of the Warriors' 2015 championship team, but his play declined in the following year's Finals. He has since found success as a role player with the Mavericks and Spurs, averaging 10.5 points per game on 43.7% shooting this season. The proposed trade would also send the Lakers' Bronny James, LeBron's son, to the Spurs.

  • The Lakers are reportedly interested in making a trade before the NBA trade deadline.

The players

LeBron James

A 38-year-old superstar forward for the Los Angeles Lakers who is expected to remain with the team through at least the 2025-26 season.

Harrison Barnes

A 33-year-old veteran forward currently playing for the San Antonio Spurs, who previously won an NBA championship with the Golden State Warriors in 2015.

Jeremy Sochan

A 20-year-old forward for the San Antonio Spurs, who was the 9th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft.

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What they’re saying

“If the Lakers don't believe that they are true contenders this season, this is a slam dunk trade for Los Angeles (LeBron and Bronny James to the San Antonio Spurs for Devin Vassell, Harrison Barnes, Jeremy Sochan, and a first-round pick).”

— Mark Morales-Smith, Sports Illustrated Writer (Sports Illustrated)

What’s next

The Lakers would need to decide if they want to make a trade before the NBA trade deadline, and if so, whether this proposed deal with the Spurs is the right move for their long-term future.

The takeaway

This potential trade highlights the Lakers' desire to build a roster that can compete both now and in the future, with the acquisition of young talent like Barnes and Sochan potentially helping them achieve that goal.