The Los Angeles Lakers are currently navigating a crossroads in their season. With the team’s inconsistent performance, particularly in recent losses that have brought them back to a .500 record, the Lakers are faced with the reality that they may need to make a move to bolster their chances for a deep playoff run. If certain factors align in the coming weeks, a trade could be inevitable. Here’s a look at potential scenarios, what the Lakers need, and which players are most likely to be moved.
1. Why a Trade is Becoming More Likely
The Lakers’ current roster is loaded with talent but still appears to have significant gaps—especially in terms of depth, consistency, and overall balance. While LeBron James and Anthony Davis remain the focal points, their championship window won’t last forever, and the Lakers can’t afford to waste this opportunity.
Inconsistent Bench Play: The Lakers’ bench has been a recurring issue, with players like D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, and Jarred Vanderbilt struggling with consistency. Despite flashes of brilliance, none of them have consistently produced at a high enough level to make the Lakers feel secure in their depth. Need for a 3-and-D Player: While the Lakers have strong defenders like Anthony Davis and Jared Vanderbilt, they still lack a reliable perimeter shooter who can also contribute on defense. This is a glaring hole that the team will likely target in trade discussions. LeBron James’ Title Window: LeBron is nearing the twilight of his career, and the Lakers can’t afford to waste any more seasons of his peak play. A trade that upgrades the roster could give the team the boost it needs to contend for a title this season.
2. Who’s Likely to Be Traded?
With a number of tradeable assets on the roster, several players could be moved if the Lakers are to address their weaknesses. Here are the top candidates:
D’Angelo Russell:
D’Angelo Russell is one of the more likely candidates to be traded. While his offensive s๐๐พ๐๐s are undeniable, his inconsistent defense and sporadic playmaking have often frustrated fans and coaching staff alike. His struggles to fit into the team’s defensive system under JJ Redick could ultimately cost him his starting role, and the Lakers might decide to move him for a player who offers better two-way play.
Trade Value: Russell’s contract and scoring ability make him a valuable trade asset. His potential to contribute as a starter or sixth man on a contending team could appeal to a variety of suitors. Possible Trade Targets: A team in need of a scoring guard, like the Utah Jazz or Indiana Pacers, could be interested in Russell’s offensive potential.
Malik Beasley:
Malik Beasley’s shooting ability is one of the key reasons he was brought to the Lakers, but he’s been inconsistent from beyond the arc. With the Lakers seeking more reliable shooting and defense, Beasley’s value could diminish if he continues to struggle. A trade for a more established 3-and-D player or a better fit for the bench could be on the horizon.
Trade Value: Beasley’s value largely lies in his three-point shooting. However, if his shot continues to be unreliable, the Lakers may opt to move him to free up space for someone who can provide more consistent impact on both ends of the floor.
Jarred Vanderbilt:
While Jarred Vanderbilt is known for his hustle, defense, and rebounding, he doesn’t provide much offensively. His lack of a reliable shot has made it difficult for the Lakers to rely on him in high-stakes situations. If a trade deal arises that brings in a more versatile player—one who can defend but also contribute on offense—Vanderbilt could be on the move.
Trade Value: Vanderbilt’s value is primarily on defense and his ability to guard multiple positions. Teams looking for a defensive-minded player could find him appealing, but the Lakers may need to add sweeteners (draft picks or other assets) to get a more complete player in return.
Jalen Hood-Schifino:
The rookie guard has shown promise but hasn’t yet carved out a consistent role on the Lakers’ roster. If the Lakers are in a win-now mode and find a trade that improves their championship chances, Hood-Schifino could be included as part of a package for a more experienced player.
Trade Value: While still a project, Hood-Schifino’s potential could be enticing to teams looking to develop a young guard. If the Lakers can trade him for a win-now piece, it may be worth moving him.
3. Potential Trade Scenarios for the Lakers
Given the Lakers’ current needs—particularly for shooting, defense, and a versatile 3-and-D player—several trade scenarios are worth considering:
Lakers Trade for Jordan Clarkson (Utah Jazz):
The Lakers have long been rumored to have interest in Jordan Clarkson, who could fill the scoring void on the Lakers’ bench while providing energy and shot creation. Clarkson’s ability to play both guard positions and contribute offensively would make him a valuable asset.
Trade Package: The Lakers might offer D’Angelo Russell or Malik Beasley, along with future draft picks, to acquire Clarkson from Utah.
Lakers Trade for OG Anunoby (Toronto Raptors):
OG Anunoby is one of the best two-way players in the league and would provide the Lakers with much-needed perimeter defense and shooting. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute offensively would elevate the Lakers’ roster.
Trade Package: To land a player like Anunoby, the Lakers would likely have to include Jarred Vanderbilt, Malik Beasley, and potentially future draft picks.
Lakers Trade for Myles Turner (Indiana Pacers):
Though not a perimeter player, Myles Turner could help solve the Lakers’ interior defense issues. He would be an excellent complement to Anthony Davis and could allow Davis to spend more time at power forward. Turner’s ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting would also add offensive versatility.
Trade Package: The Lakers might send D’Angelo Russell and Jared Vanderbilt to Indiana in exchange for Turner and a role player.
4. What Needs to Happen for a Trade?
Injury Situations: Teams looking to make trades often do so due to injuries or other roster shifts. If the Lakers’ target teams experience any injuries or shifts in their lineup, it could prompt them to move key players. This is an important factor the Lakers will be monitoring closely. Lakers’ Continued Struggles: If the Lakers’ current roster struggles continue, management will likely feel more pressure to make a trade. If the team remains stuck around .500 and the playoff race tightens, an urgent move will be required. Trade Deadline Looms: With the trade deadline approaching, teams become more motivated to finalize deals that will improve their chances for a playoff push. The Lakers will need to act quickly if they want to improve their roster.
5. Conclusion: Trade Likely Coming Soon
The Lakers are at a critical juncture, and a trade seems more likely than ever. Whether it’s addressing the team’s shooting woes, adding defensive depth, or improving the overall balance of the roster, a move is coming soon—especially if the Lakers remain stagnant around the .500 mark. With several players—D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, and Jarred Vanderbilt—likely to be involved in trade talks, it’s clear that the Lakers are committed to making a move that could position them for a title run.