The Los Angeles Lakers are trading Thomas Bryant to the Denver Nuggets for Davon Reed and three second-round picks, sources tell ESPN. The Lakers get Denver’s second-round picks in 2025, 2026, and 2029.

Adrian Wojnarowski writes, “Moving Bryant opens up minutes for Jarred Vanderbilt and Wenyen Gabriel in rotation.” Bryant grew unhappy with his diminished role since Anthony Davis returned and wanted to be in a better situation, per Ramona Shelburne of ESPN. She adds, “He’d also outplayed his contract & LA only has mid-level to re-sign him— so they opted to give his minutes to Wenyen Gabriel & replenish the picks they gave up for Rui.”

Bryant has given the Lakers some productive and high-energy stretches this season. There are more than a few fans who follow this team a bit surprised to see the Lakers move a semi-productive asset. He is averaging 12 points and 6.8 rebounds in 21 minutes and he’ll be a physical addition to Nuggets’ frontline. The belief here might be that the Lakers are stockpiling picks to make a larger deal.

Meanwhile, Reed is a former G League player who is an A + defender and can score in moderation. He’s a good role player but didn’t get many minutes on a deep Nuggets bench.

There are a few jokes making the rounds on social media as Bryant was the player who called for the ball on LeBron James’ record-breaking shot. The sarcastic speculation is that the Lakers immediately shipped him out of LA after doing so.