The Los Angeles Lakers took a three-game winning streak and some budding positive vibes into Wednesday’s game against the Sacramento Kings — only to put forth a dud.
They were outclassed in several categories as the Kings made very quick work of them in a 125-110 decision. The Lakers now are 6-6, and while no one is panicking, at least not yet, there are reasons for concern.
What looked like a championship-caliber roster when the season started is now, at least according to some, looking like a vastly flawed roster. While LeBron James and Anthony Davis have played well most of the time, L.A.’ two main guards — D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves — have been inconsistent offensively.
Trade rumors are starting to activate, and as far as the Lakers are concerned, they involve three Chicago Bulls players: Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan and former cult hero Alex Caruso.
Lakers insider Jovan Buha says the team has some real interest in LaVine (h/t Lakers Daily).
Via The Athletic:
“The Lakers’ interest in LaVine is real — at the right price,” Buha wrote. “However, LaVine’s potential availability also hints at the possibility of a fire sale in Chicago, with the organization seemingly looking to finally pivot away from its longstanding mediocrity. If additional Bulls players become available, the Lakers would also have interest in DeMar DeRozan and/or former Laker Alex Caruso, according to multiple team sources.”
LaVine has been linked to the Lakers periodically over the last few years. He played his college ball at the University of California, Los Angeles, and he is represented by Klutch Sports, which, of course, also represents James and Davis.
However, as Buha pointed out, whether LaVine would actually fit, let alone help the team, is an open question.
“There’s also an open question of how much LaVine would actually address the Lakers’ needs, particularly perimeter defense and 3-point shooting.
“This season, LaVine is averaging 21.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 0.8 steals in 35.2 minutes per game. He would give the Lakers a reliable third (and even second, on some nights) scoring option. He’d also give them a much-needed infusion of perimeter athleticism and 3-point shooting – he’s making just 33 percent from 3 this season, but 38.2 percent for his career. At the same time, though he’s improved as a defender through the years, LaVine remains a liability on that end and would exacerbate LA’s current backcourt issues.”
The Bulls are 4-8, and their best bet may be to hit the proverbial reset button.