The Los Angeles Lakers are holding onto a playoff position this season, but the numbers don’t exactly paint a picture of dominance. Allowing 113.8 points per game while scoring just 111.5, the Lakers’ net rating of -2.4 ranks a disappointing 21st in the NBA.
While LeBron James continues to defy Father Time at age 40, the pressure on him, Anthony Davis, and Austin Reaves to carry the team has been immense. The “Big Three” are playing well, but they can’t do it alone if the Lakers hope to make a deep playoff run.
That’s where a sneaky trade for Bruce Brown could make all the difference. Brown, a key piece of the Denver Nuggets’ 2023 championship team, would bring grit, versatility, and championship experience to a Lakers roster that needs depth and defensive reliability.
During Denver’s title run in 2022-23, Brown averaged 12.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 51.1% from the field in the playoffs. His ability to thrive as a secondary playmaker and multi-positional defender would fit perfectly alongside James and Davis.
Potential Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Bruce Brown
Toronto Raptors Receive: Gabe Vincent, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2025 Second-Round Pick (LAC)
The proposed trade to acquire Brown from the Toronto Raptors would involve sending out Gabe Vincent, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and a 2025 second-round pick. It’s a reasonable price for a player who can contribute immediately and help transform the Lakers from playoff hopefuls into true contenders, especially since the team wants to use second-round picks rather than first-rounders to improve the roster. Let’s dive deeper into why this deal could be a game-changer for Los Angeles.
Lakers Add Another Above-Average Two-Way Wing Player
Bruce Brown would be a seamless fit for the Lakers, providing a blend of defense, shooting, and playmaking that complements the team’s stars. At 6’4” with a 6’9” wingspan, Brown is capable of guarding multiple positions, from quick guards to bigger wings, making him a valuable asset for a Lakers team that ranks just 18th in defensive rating (113.2).
Even if he is only averaging 7.2 points and 3.4 rebounds per game in nine appearances this season, his on-ball defense and ability to disrupt passing lanes were instrumental in the Nuggets’ success two seasons ago, and he could bring similar energy to Los Angeles when healthy and motivated.
Offensively, Brown adds versatility. He thrives as a cutter which would pair well with LeBron James’ elite court vision. Additionally, Brown’s experience running the offense in a secondary role would take some of the playmaking burden off James and Austin Reaves, ensuring the Lakers’ offense remains functional even during stretches when their stars rest.
The Lakers’ current roster lacks depth at the wing position outside of the newly acquired Dorian Finney-Smith, and Brown could instantly step in to join the party. By adding an above-average two-way player like Brown, the Lakers would shore up one of their weakest areas and position themselves for a deep playoff run.
Bringing on board Dorian Finney-Smith and Bruce Brown would be a nice haul overall this season, considering they have only given up D’Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, and three second-round picks for Finney-Smith (and Shake Milton). Losing a few bench players and a second-round pick wouldn’t be bad if it means adding Brown as well.
Bruce Brown Gets Another Shot With A Championship Team
For Bruce Brown, the Lakers would represent a return to a championship-caliber environment. During the Nuggets’ 2023 title run, Brown consistently made critical plays, averaging 12.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game in the postseason. His ability to adapt his role to fit the needs of a contender demonstrates a maturity and basketball IQ that the Lakers could greatly benefit from.
Joining a Lakers team led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis would give Brown another opportunity to shine on the biggest stage. Playing alongside elite stars often elevates role players, and Brown’s game is tailor-made for this environment. His knack for cutting at the right moment and his willingness to take open shots would allow him to thrive in the Lakers’ system, where spacing around James and Davis is critical.
Additionally, Brown has experience in clutch moments, hitting key shots and making defensive stops when it matters most. The Lakers, who have struggled to close out games this season with a terrible fourth-quarter rating, could use a player with Brown’s composure and championship pedigree.
A Sneaky Trade Could Elevate Lakers’ 17th-Ranked Offense And 18th-Ranked Defense
The Lakers’ offensive struggles have been apparent this season, ranking 17th in offensive rating (112.8). While the Big Three of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Austin Reaves have shouldered the scoring load, the team lacks consistent contributions from its supporting cast. Bruce Brown’s career 8.9 points per game, combined with his solid defense (career 10.2 defensive win shares) and ability to create off the dribble, would immediately boost the Lakers’ offensive depth.
Defensively, the Lakers have been inconsistent, ranking 18th in defensive rating (113.2). Brown’s versatility on that end of the floor could help tighten things up. His career 0.9 steals per game and ability to defend multiple positions make him an invaluable asset for a team that has struggled to contain opposing wings and guards. Adding Brown would allow the Lakers to experiment with more switch-heavy defensive schemes, which could disrupt the rhythm of opposing offenses.
Beyond the stats, Brown’s championship experience and winning mentality could have an intangible impact on the Lakers’ locker room. With LeBron James in his 22nd season, the Lakers are in win-now mode, and every addition counts.
Trading for Brown without giving up major assets would not only address their immediate weaknesses but also position them as stronger contenders in a wide-open Western Conference with only the OKC Thunder looking like a team with similar superstar talent and depth.
Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us on Google News. We really appreciate your support.
