In any case, it's not the message, it's the messenger. Paul is one of the most powerful off-court figures in the league, reps Reaves' legendary teammate (who carries plenty of weight himself) and has previously suggested on another episode of his podcast that Reaves should shift to a bench role, à la Manu Ginobili.

The league has almost completely moved away from the trend that dominated a decade ago, when the Miami Heat's Big 3 ruled the NBA. A player of Chris Bosh 's caliber accepted the role of a third option, despite playing at an All-Star level with the Toronto Raptors. Still, if you ask Rich Paul, it wasn't truly a Big 3.

As LeBron denies influencing Rich Paul's trade suggestion, ESPN's First Take reveals why a lifetime of close partnership makes public separation impossible for the NBA's most powerful duo.

Trae Young has been the biggest name moved so far, ending his time with the Atlanta Hawks and joining the Washington Wizards in a long-speculated trade. But he certainly won't be the only domino to fall. So let's take a look at all the latest intel in the rumor mill and buzz out there on Wednesday.

As Buha said, the first comment that ruffled feathers was Paul's assertion that the Lakers are not championship contenders. He doubled down on that last week when he said even if Luka Doncic turns into prime Tony Allen, the Lakers still would not win with their current roster.