Rich Paul Urges Lakers Trade Reaves for Jaren Jackson

Merlin sees Rich Paul stir the pot by saying, "If I was the Lakers, I would be targeting the Memphis Grizzlies as a trade partner for Jaren Jackson," and suggesting Austin Reaves as part of the return. The remark landed during a three-game skid for Los Angeles and, as Jovan Buha put it, "people have not been happy" with those comments. The suggestion has raised eyebrows because it targets a rising, beloved role player. Merlin notes the trade math is messy. Reaves is growing into a key piece and a marketplace asset while Jackson offers rim protection but has battled injuries. Swapping them would not instantly fix the Lakers defensive woes and could create locker-room tension. Expect the front office to do damage control, agents to chatter, and the rumor mill to warm as the deadline approaches.