In the NBA, market size counts. Nobody should be shocked when the league’s brightest stars opt to play under the league’s brightest lights.

With that in mind, it sometimes feels almost impossible that teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets could fail. With so many built-in advantages, how could either lose?

Yet, both squads lost in 2021-22 – frequently. The Lakers were especially disappointing. A 33-win season from a team featuring two former MVPs and Anthony Davis is unacceptable by any standard.

NBA

It’s a matter of when, not if the Los Angeles Lakers trade Russell Westbrook

At the same time, the Nets only fared marginally better. True, they did make the playoffs – only to earn the honor of getting swept by the Boston Celtics in the opening round.

Prior to the start of 2021-22, many had these two pegged for a Finals showdown. It didn’t even come remotely close to happening.

Now, each side could stand to make major changes. Could they help each other do so?

 

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: F Kevin Durant, G Kyrie Irving

Brooklyn Nets Receive: G Russell Westbrook, F/C Anthony Davis, G/F Talen Horton-Tucker, G Austin Reaves, 2026 First-Round Pick (Swap – LAL), 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2028 First-Round Pick (Swap – LAL), 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)