Lakers propose trade sending Jaden Hardy to Nuggets for Zeke Nnaji
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 5:04 AM
Last updated Aug 19, 2026

The Los Angeles Lakers are considering a trade proposal that would send Jaden Hardy to the Denver Nuggets in exchange for center Zeke Nnaji. Hardy, acquired in a deal involving Deandre Ayton, is seen as surplus in a crowded backcourt, while Nnaji, a 2023 NBA champion, could help address the Lakers' needs in the frontcourt. The rumored trade would involve Nnaji’s $7.4 million salary, offering the Nuggets a chance to reduce payroll by acquiring Hardy’s expiring $6 million contract. Both teams could benefit as Los Angeles seeks frontcourt depth and Denver looks to bolster its guard rotation with a younger player.
- •Lakers target Zeke Nnaji amid big man shortage.
- •Jaden Hardy is seen as expendable due to roster depth.
- •Nuggets looking to reduce payroll by trading Nnaji.
- •Nnaji won a championship with the Nuggets in 2023.
- •Hardy averaged 12.6 points with the Wizards.
- 5:04 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers Trade Pitch Flips Jaden Hardy for NBA Champion Big Man
"A Lakers trade idea doing the rounds would flip Jaden Hardy for Nuggets big man Zeke Nnaji, who won a championship in 2023. The post Lakers Trade Pitch Flips Jaden Hardy for NBA Champion Big Man appeared first on HEAVY.
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