With Luka Dončić now in LA, the Lakers boast an elite offense with LBJ and Reaves, but are clearly lacking on the defensive end and interior presence. This deal addresses that imbalance.
Anthony Black brings defensive versatility and size at the guard position — a much-needed perimeter stopper to pair with Luka. Goga Bitadze gives L.A. a solid interior presence to help cover the loss of Anthony Davis.
Orlando, on the other hand, is deep at guard and has limited shooting. They swap out the raw Black for Dalton Knecht, a polished scorer and shooter who can stretch the floor immediately. Maxi Kleber if healthy gives them veteran depth, shooting, and defensive IQ at the 4/5, making him a useful rotation piece, especially in playoff scenarios.
It’s a win-win deal based on roster needs: the Lakers add defense and size, while the Magic gain offensive firepower and shooting.