With the February 6 trade deadline fast approaching, the Los Angeles Lakers are actively looking for ways to improve their roster and boost their championship hopes. According to The Athletic’s Jovan Buha, the Lakers have identified three key areas they need to address in order to maximize their chances of success:
– A defensive-minded backup center to support Anthony Davis
– More defense, shooting, and athleticism on the wings
– An additional ball-handler and playmaker to relieve LeBron James and Austin Reaves
While the Lakers have limited trade assets, including only two tradable first-round picks (2029 and 2031) and a few mid-sized contracts there are still realistic moves to be made. Here’s a closer look at how they might address these needs.
A Defensive-Minded Backup Center
One of the biggest concerns for the Lakers is their lack of depth at the center position. When Anthony Davis is off the floor, the team struggles defensively and on the glass. This has prompted the Lakers to explore multiple options to solidify their interior defense and find a reliable backup big man.
Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz is one of the most intriguing targets. He is a dominant shot-blocker, averaging 2.4 blocks per game, and an elite offensive rebounder. His defensive impact and ability to play alongside or behind Davis make him an ideal fit. However, Utah’s high asking price could present a challenge in acquiring him.
Another option is Myles Turner from the Indiana Pacers, a player long linked to the Lakers. Turner’s unique combination of rim protection and three-point shooting makes him a rare commodity in today’s NBA.
He is averaging 15.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks while shooting an impressive 39.3% from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor and anchor the defense makes him a dream acquisition for the Lakers.
Jakob Poeltl of the Toronto Raptors is another viable candidate. Known for his physicality and elite rebounding, Poeltl averages 10.4 rebounds per game and brings a strong interior presence. However, his long-term contract and Toronto’s high asking price could make negotiations difficult for the Lakers.
More Defense, Shooting, and Athleticism on the Wings
The Lakers desperately need more two-way wings who can defend multiple positions, knock down three-pointers, and provide athleticism. Outside of LeBron James and Dorian-Finney Smith, the team lacks versatile perimeter defenders who can also contribute offensively.
Cameron Johnson of the Brooklyn Nets would be a perfect addition to the Lakers’ rotation. Standing at 6’8, Johnson is an elite shooter enjoying a career year, averaging 19.4 points per game while shooting 41.9% from three. His combination of size, shooting ability, and secondary playmaking makes him a seamless fit alongside LeBron and Davis.
Bruce Brown Jr. is another intriguing option. A tough, versatile defender who played a key role in Denver’s 2023 championship run, Brown brings experience and grit. His ability to handle the ball and defend multiple positions makes him a valuable asset for a team in need of perimeter defense.
Matisse Thybulle of the Portland Trail Blazers is one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA. His defensive capabilities are undeniable, but his offensive limitations make him a less appealing target unless the Lakers can acquire another shooter to offset his lack of scoring.
An Additional Ball-Handler and Playmaker
LeBron James and Austin Reaves have taken on too much of the playmaking load, making it imperative for the Lakers to add another competent ball-handler. Finding a player who can initiate offense and take some of the pressure off LeBron, especially in key moments, would be a crucial addition.
One potential option is Lonzo Ball of the Chicago Bulls. A familiar face to Lakers fans, Ball is an elite passer, strong defender, and high-IQ playmaker. However, his extensive injury history raises concerns about his ability to contribute consistently.
Collin Sexton from the Utah Jazz presents another possibility. A score-first guard, Sexton is capable of providing instant offense off the bench. However, he lacks elite playmaking skills, which may not fully address the Lakers’ need for a facilitator.
Ayo Dosunmu of the Chicago Bulls is a young and athletic guard who brings energy and solid defense. While he has shown promise, he is not necessarily a game-changing playmaker. Nonetheless, his defensive intensity and ability to push the pace could make him a valuable rotational piece for the Lakers.
If the Lakers could make a dream trade, acquiring Myles Turner and Bruce Brown would be ideal. However, realistically, if they manage to land any two of these targets, they will significantly improve their roster.
The Lakers’ path to a championship depends on how aggressive they are at the deadline. If they can address these three key areas, they will be in a much stronger position heading into the playoffs.
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