After Passing Kobe’s 81, Bam Adebayo Linked to Lakers Trade

Bam Adebayo’s historic scoring explosion may have sparked controversy among Los Angeles Lakers fans, but one prominent NBA analyst believes the All-Star big man could actually be the franchise’s most intriguing offseason target.

In a recent analysis for Bleacher Report, Dan Favale identified Adebayo as the Lakers’ top potential trade target heading into the summer—an idea that carries an added layer of irony given the backlash he recently received from Los Angeles supporters.

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Bleacher Report’s Analyst Names Bam Adebayo Lakers’ Top Trade Target

Favale argued that the Lakers could enter the offseason with significant financial flexibility depending on how their roster evolves, potentially allowing them to pursue a major frontcourt upgrade.

“Assuming LeBron James leaves Hollywood, the Los Angeles Lakers will enter the summer with nearly $50 million in cap space while retaining Austin Reaves’ free-agency hold,” Favale wrote. “They’ll also have the ability to dangle up to three first-round picks. Fireworks seem inevitable.”

According to Favale, Los Angeles faces multiple roster priorities—particularly on the wing and at center. But the possibility of acquiring Adebayo could shift those priorities dramatically.

“Los Angeles needs massive upgrades on the wings and in the middle,” Favale wrote. “Given the free-agency pool has more quality center options, the former takes precedence. That is, unless Bam Adebayo proves gettable.”

Favale added that Miami’s long-standing reluctance to rebuild could be tested if the franchise again falls short of championship contention.

“The Miami Heat tend to avoid traditional rebuilds, but if they trend toward another empty-handed summer, it might be time to consider moving their defensive anchor as he begins a three-year extension that averages out to over 30 percent of the salary cap,” Favale wrote.

In Favale’s view, Adebayo’s defensive versatility and ability to facilitate offense from the high post could mesh well alongside the Lakers’ current stars.

“His mid-range heavy shot diet is cause for pause,” Favale noted, “but he has the tools to reorient his usage around elite playmakers like Reaves and Luka Dončić.”

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Irony After Lakers Fans Criticized Adebayo’s 83-Point Night

The trade speculation arrives at a particularly ironic moment.

Adebayo recently ignited debate across the NBA after delivering a historic 83-point performance in Miami’s 150–129 win over the Washington Wizards.

The performance became the second-highest scoring game in NBA history, trailing only the legendary 100-point game by Wilt Chamberlain in 1962.

More significantly for Lakers fans, Adebayo’s total surpassed the iconic 81-point game recorded by Kobe Bryant in 2006—long considered one of the most untouchable scoring feats of the modern NBA era.

The record-breaking night quickly triggered backlash among Lakers supporters and Bryant loyalists, many of whom questioned the circumstances surrounding the performance after Adebayo set single-game NBA records with 36 made free throws and 43 attempts.

Some critics argued that Miami’s late-game strategy—extending possessions through fouls—helped inflate the final scoring total.

Despite the criticism, the achievement instantly placed Adebayo in rare statistical company.

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Why Bam Adebayo Could Fit the Lakers’ Future

Beyond the controversy, Favale’s analysis underscores why Adebayo would still represent an appealing target for Los Angeles.

The 6-foot-9 center has built a reputation as one of the league’s most versatile defenders, capable of switching onto guards while anchoring a defense in the paint. His playmaking ability from the elbow also aligns with the Lakers’ offensive philosophy centered around high-level creators.

If the Lakers were able to construct a trade package built around draft assets and financial flexibility, Adebayo could theoretically slot alongside Dončić and Reaves as part of a retooled core.

Whether the Heat would ever consider moving their franchise cornerstone remains uncertain. Miami historically resists full rebuilds and continues to prioritize remaining competitive.

Still, the scenario outlined by Favale illustrates how quickly narratives can shift in the NBA.

Barely 24 hours after many Lakers fans criticized Adebayo for surpassing Bryant’s scoring mark, one prominent analyst is suggesting the same player could be the franchise’s most intriguing path toward its next contender.

Alder Almo is a sports journalist covering the NBA for Heavy.com. He has more than 20 years of experience in local and international media, including broadcast, print and digital. He previously covered the Knicks for Empire Sports Media and the NBA for Off the Glass. Alder is from the Philippines and is now based in Jersey City, New Jersey. More about Alder Almo