The Los Angeles Lakers may still need another piece or two to seriously contend for the NBA championship this season. They’re 11-9 about a quarter of the way through their season, and while they have some definite strengths, at least one of their weaknesses has been crystal clear.
Much of the trade buzz regarding the Lakers has involved the Chicago Bulls, who may soon hold a fire sale. Multiple reports have indicated L.A. is interested in two-time All-Star wing Zach LaVine, but it could also go after former Laker Alex Caruso or DeMar DeRozan.
However, as one insider wrote, there are five other teams the team is monitoring in case any of their players become available (h/t Lakers Daily).
Via The Athletic:
“That said, don’t expect a move immediately after Dec. 15,” The Athletic’s Jovan Buha wrote. “The Lakers plan to take a patient approach to the trade market, team sources not authorized to speak publicly tell The Athletic, and would prefer to see what their group looks like whole before making a monumental roster decision. They’re still evaluating their needs and will continue to monitor the league, including potential fire sales in Toronto, Washington, Utah, Brooklyn and/or Charlotte that could make useful rotation players available.
“There’s always a chance they strike a move before the February deadline — similar to acquiring (Rui) Hachimura a couple of weeks before last season’s — but a trade is far more likely to come later in the trading window than sooner.”
The Lakers could use 3-point snipers who play shooting guard and/or small forward, as well as a more serviceable backup big man. Christian Wood, who has been a very productive scorer over the last few years, is averaging just 7.3 points a game while shooting just 26.9% from 3-point range. Meanwhile, Jaxson Hayes has had some strong moments, but the Lakers need more rebounding from him — he’s getting just 5.3 boards per 36 minutes this season.