The NBA offseason is here for 28 teams, and the final two remaining in the Finals are the only ones still chasing a title. But for teams like the Atlanta Hawks, New York Knicks, and Chicago Bulls, the focus is on what comes next — and for some, that means big moves.
Among the most talked-about scenarios is a three-team trade involving the Hawks, Lakers, and Pelicans. This hypothetical deal would see Herb Jones heading to the Lakers, while Jose Alvarado and Jordan Hawkins head to Atlanta, and the Pelicans get a package of players, picks, and contracts in return.
This isn’t necessarily a real plan, but it’s an intriguing look at how teams might use the trade market to improve their rosters.
The Trade Breakdown
Here’s the proposed three-team trade:
- Hawks Receive: Jose Alvarado and Jordan Hawkins
- Lakers Receive: Herb Jones and Terance Mann
- Pelicans Receive: Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, Dalton Knecht, Kobe Bufkin, a 2027 second-round pick (from ATL, via CLE), a 2029 second-round pick (from ATL, via CLE), and a 2030 first-round pick swap (via LAL)
It’s a complex deal, but each team has a clear reason to consider it.
Why the Hawks Would Make the Move?
The Atlanta Hawks have been looking to upgrade their bench, especially after a tough postseason where their depth was exposed. With Trae Young as their main star, they need a reliable backup point guard and more shooting.
Jose Alvarado fits that role perfectly — he’s a solid defender and a capable ball handler who can play off the bench. And Jordan Hawkins, coming out of UConn, brings youth and shooting potential.
By trading away Terance Mann, the Hawks could free up cap space and add younger, cheaper talent. It’s a smart way to build for the future.
But there are risks. The Hawks may not want to part with Bufkin, and Alvarado or Hawkins may not be worth the trade if they don’t pan out.
Why the Lakers Would Go For It
For the Los Angeles Lakers, this trade makes sense on multiple levels. They’ve added Luka Doncic, but their wing defense and bench depth remain a concern.
Herb Jones is one of the best wing defenders in the league, and his ability to lock down opposing stars would help LeBron James and Doncic stay healthy and competitive in the playoffs.
Terance Mann is a veteran presence who can provide leadership and experience. While he’s had injury issues, the Lakers are willing to take a chance on him if it helps them win now.
However, the Lakers might prefer to target a center over adding another wing. Jones’ injury history and inconsistent shooting raise concerns, and they might rather invest in a big man than a perimeter defender.
Why the Pelicans Would Be Interested?
If the New Orleans Pelicans are indeed planning to rebuild, this trade gives them a shot at young players and draft assets. Kobe Bufkin and Dalton Knecht are young and have upside, while the pick swaps give them flexibility.
They’re likely to be interested in any player who can help them build for the future, and this trade allows them to do just that.
Still, the Pelicans might not value these players the same way others do, and they could get more from a different trade partner. If they’re going all-in on rebuilding, this could be a good move.
A Speculative but Interesting Scenario
This is a speculative trade idea, not a guaranteed move, but it shows how teams can use the NBA’s CBA rules to make strategic trades.
With financial flexibility and a weak free agent class, the Hawks might look to the trade market to fill their needs. The Lakers, despite having a great roster, still need defensive help, and the Pelicans could use more young talent and picks.
While this scenario is far from certain, it highlights the strategic thinking that goes into offseason moves and how teams can reshape their rosters through creative trades.
This three-team trade idea is just one of many possibilities in a highly competitive NBA offseason. Whether it happens or not, it’s a reminder of how complex and dynamic the trade market can be.
As teams evaluate their options, the Lakers, Hawks, and Pelicans will all be watching closely — and maybe even considering bold moves of their own.
