Up to this point in the season, the Los Angeles Lakers have exceeded expectations given the injuries and adversity thrown their way. With Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves showcasing an extremely high ceiling as a backcourt, the Lakers have themselves in the top half of the West playoff picture.
Outside of those two, LeBron James is starting to figure out how he fits in with each game under his belt. Then, Rui Hachimura and Deandre Ayton provide secondary scoring punches when opposing defenses focus on the Big 3.
However, a noticeable flaw is the lack of defensive-minded personnel. That is a key need when the trade deadline rolls around, as adding one or two 3-and-D players could go a long way to create a bit more balance.
With uncertainty surrounding Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future in Wisconsin, the Lakers are not necessarily expected to make a splashy move. But, they are going to try and find a middle of ground in terms of meaningful upgrades to the roster, as reported on The Zach Lowe Show:
“I think the Lakers are, like there’s been this dichotomy of either the Lakers stand pat or they try to make some crazy Giannis trade that involves Reaves and all their picks. I think there’s a middle ground where the Lakers, there’s some buzz about could they sort of make a fringey trade to try to upgrade this roster. I think as this new ownership comes in, I think they’re trying to maximize this team.”
Two trade targets that come to mind are Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins, who was connected to the Lakers during the offseason and New Orleans Pelicans forward Herb Jones. Both could tremendously help L.A.’s perimeter defense, but their availability remains a question mark.
The Lakers do have expiring contracts in Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber and a young player in Dalton Knecht along with first round draft capital and swaps.
It remains to be seen whether Wiggins or Jones will be available, but that caliber of player is what general manager Rob Pelinka needs to look for.
Lakers’ future draft picks viewed as less valuable after Luka Doncic trade
Last season, the Lakers were viewed to be in a bad spot with LeBron James’ looming retirement and Anthony Davis entering his mid-30s. So, opposing teams were trying to get their remaining draft capital in trade discussions.
However, the Luka Doncic trade changed every narrative as L.A. suddenly had a future with a generational star. Front offices have taken notice of this, thinking the Lakers’ draft picks are less valuable in trade talks.
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