Explore the Los Angeles Lakers’ comprehensive trade strategy for the 2024 deadline. Discover potential targets, key predictions, and the team’s approach to bolstering their roster for championship contention.
- Post-tournament performance dip spurs potential significant changes at the trade deadline.
- Focus on players like Malcolm Brogdon, Zach LaVine, and Dorian Finney-Smith to enhance offensive efficiency and defense.
- High likelihood of trading D’Angelo Russell to improve team dynamics and financial flexibility.
Los Angeles Lakers Trade Deadline for 2024
As of early 2024, the Los Angeles Lakers are actively exploring options to strengthen their roster through trades. The team, which hasn’t resembled a title contender since their NBA In-Season Tournament victory, is considering various trades to boost their performance.
Current Team Status and Need for Change
- Post-Tournament Struggles: The Lakers have not shown title contender form since winning the NBA In-Season Tournament. This decline in performance suggests imminent changes at the trade deadline.
- Roster Changes: Following their Western Conference finals appearance last season, the Lakers retooled their roster, acquiring Gabe Vincent, Jaxson Hayes, Cam Reddish, Taurean Prince, and Christian Wood. However, with a 17-17 record and a recent losing streak, further roster revamping seems likely.
Potential Trade Targets to Boost the Lakers
- Malcolm Brogdon (Trail Blazers): The Lakers have shown interest in Malcolm Brogdon, who is currently with the Portland Trail Blazers. Brogdon, on an expiring contract and with past health issues, could be a valuable addition to the Lakers. His acquisition could potentially be at a lower cost due to these factors
- Dorian Finney-Smith (Nets): An elite 3-and-D player, Finney-Smith could be a key target for the Lakers, potentially involving a trade with D’Angelo Russell or Rui Hachimura.
- Royce O’Neale (Nets): Another potential target from the Nets, O’Neale is a strong defender with decent outside shooting. He’s in the final year of his contract, making him an interesting option for the Lakers.
- Jordan Clarkson: With the Lakers ranking low in offensive rating, acquiring a proven scorer like Clarkson could be beneficial, especially given his better defensive capabilities compared to D’Angelo Russell.
- Pascal Siakam (Raptors): As the Raptors consider roster changes, Siakam, in the last year of his contract, emerges as a potential trade target for the Lakers.
- Zach LaVine (Bulls): Despite a down year and a foot injury, LaVine’s scoring prowess and 3-point shooting ability make him a prime candidate for the Lakers. However, acquiring him could mean parting with Austin Reaves.
- Buddy Hield (Pacers): Known for his 3-point shooting, Hield could address the Lakers’ shooting needs. The Pacers’ high asking price for him might be a challenge, though.
- Dejounte Murray (Hawks): The Lakers are reportedly the favorites to land Dejounte Murray from the Atlanta Hawks. Murray, who has a four-year, $120 million extension starting next season, could be a strategic fit for the Lakers alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. However, any trade with the Hawks for Murray would likely need to include players like Austin Reaves or Max Christie from the Lakers.
Likely Trades
- D’Angelo Russell’s Potential Trade: D’Angelo Russell, whose offensive role and position in the starting rotation have diminished under coach Darvin Ham, is a likely candidate to be traded. His contract, which is less than $20 million with a player option for the next season, makes him an attractive option for teams like the San Antonio Spurs.
The Los Angeles Lakers, under GM Rob Pelinka’s guidance, are exploring various options to enhance their roster. The focus is on adding players who can contribute to winning basketball, particularly in offensive efficiency and outside shooting.
The potential trade targets indicate a strategic approach to acquire players who can complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis while addressing the team’s weaknesses.
These strategic changes not only have implications for the team’s performance but also influence sports betting markets, as bettors and analysts closely watch the Lakers’ roster evolution.
As the trade deadline approaches, it’s clear that the Lakers are poised to make significant moves to revive their championship aspirations.
