The Los Angeles Lakers, a team synonymous with basketball excellence, have found themselves in a perplexing state of flux this season. Despite clinching victory in the NBA’s first In-Season Tournament, they’ve been battling inconsistency, reflected in their below .500 record of 21-22 after a recent loss to the Brooklyn Nets. This unsteady performance has inevitably put them at the center of numerous trade rumors.
As the February 4 trade deadline looms, the LA Lakers, anchored by seasoned stars, are actively seeking to bolster their roster. Their aim? To construct a team capable of contending for the championship. With this goal in mind, let’s explore five potential players who could don the Los Angeles Lakers’ iconic Purple and Gold by the deadline.
1. Zach Lavine: A Scoring Dynamo Poised for Change
Zach Lavine, known for his offensive prowess, seems to be nearing an inevitable split with the Chicago Bulls. Both parties appear to be at a crossroads, with the Bulls far from championship contention and Lavine averaging less than 20.0 ppg for the first time in five seasons. The Los Angeles Lakers, yearning for a consistent scoring threat to complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis, could find an ideal match in Lavine. Despite the cost of significant assets, acquiring Lavine could be a strategic move to maximize the twilight of LeBron’s illustrious career.
2. Dorian Finney-Smith: Defensive Mastery Meets Sharp Shooting
Dorian Finney-Smith, currently with the Brooklyn Nets, is known for his exceptional defensive skills and solid shooting. While his acquisition might not be the blockbuster trade fans are eagerly anticipating, it addresses a critical need for the Lakers. With the team conceding an average of 115.7 points per game, Finney-Smith’s defensive acumen and impressive 40.1% three-point shooting could significantly fortify the Los Angeles Lakers’ defensive and offensive capabilities.
3. Jerami Grant: An Underrated Offensive Asset
Jerami Grant of the Portland Trail Blazers represents an underutilized talent in a team focused on rebuilding. As Grant approaches his 30s, a move to the Los Angeles Lakers could provide him the opportunity to showcase his skills on a more competitive stage. Lakers coach Darvin Ham could leverage Grant’s offensive versatility, offering the team new tactical variations and enhancing Grant’s gameplay in a LeBron and AD-centric offense.
The 2021 Lakers were an AD injury away from being back-to-back champions 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/5pxBdttvEo
— JAKE (@KingJakeonX) January 18, 2024
4. Dejounte Murray: The Point Guard LA Needs
Dejounte Murray has been a subject of interest for the Los Angeles Lakers, especially as they consider upgrading their point guard position. Trading for Murray could bring a significant defensive improvement over D’Angelo Russell. Beyond his immediate impact, Murray’s potential as a future star to complement Anthony Davis post-LeBron era adds a strategic depth to this potential acquisition.
5. Bruce Brown: A Valuable Addition on the Move
Bruce Brown, recently acquired by the Toronto Raptors, is already a target for potential trades. His prior interest from the Los Angeles Lakers positions them as frontrunners should he become available. Brown’s unique situation with the Raptors, who are over the salary cap, makes him a singular trading option without the possibility of bundling another player. However, Brown’s individual talent and versatility make him a valuable asset in his own right.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for the Los Angeles Lakers
As the trade deadline approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers stand at a pivotal juncture. The potential addition of any of these players could significantly alter their trajectory, enhancing their bid for another championship run. The Lakers’ strategy in the coming weeks will be a topic of intense speculation and excitement for fans and analysts alike as they watch to see which of these talents will join the ranks of the storied franchise.
