Trade rumors involving the Los Angeles Lakers have heated up in recent days, and it is clear they will do whatever it will take to improve their roster.
While they have struggled to get substantially over .500, especially in the last month, they have shown potential. They won the in-season tournament with ease. So far in January, they have defeated very good teams such as the Los Angeles Clippers, Oklahoma City Thunder and Dallas Mavericks.
On Sunday, L.A. ran the Portland Trail Blazers out of the gym, and afterward, head coach Darvin Ham said the team has enough to accomplish its goals as is (h/t Lakers Nation).
“Absolutely. That’s why it was constructed the way it was constructed,” Ham responded when asked if the Lakers have enough to compete without a trade. “You go through that process of discovery, and injuries, illnesses, what have you, they tend to disrupt that. So when you’re constantly shuffling guys in and out of the lineup, it’s kinda difficult to create continuity.
“We know we have a hell of a 1-2 punch with AD (Anthony Davis) and Bron (LeBron James). It’s just guys getting comfortable and being aggressive, not waiting for those two guys to do everything. Play your part. Be supportive but also be a threat yourself. Be deliberate, be decisive so we can help give those guys the support they need.
“Because once the game is down to the waning moments, they are going to make the plays that are going to put us in a good position to be successful. Leading up to that point, different guys have to step up and not be afraid to make plays.”
Starting guard D’Angelo Russell, whose name has come up in trade rumors perhaps more than anyone else on the team, has been red-hot lately while putting up some big scoring games. The Lakers are rumored to be in the market for someone who would be an upgrade over Russell and has some speed and quickness in the open court.