The Lakers need to identify key weaknesses in their roster, focusing on adding a player who can handle playmaking duties, become a key floor general, and relieve LeBron James when it comes to those duties. D’Angelo Russell has not been the answer so far this season, only posting 12.4 points and 4.8 assists per game on 33.3% from deep.
It is safe to say that Russell won’t be the answer for the Lakers for the foreseeable future. Luckily for the Lakers, there are some key point guard targets for them to focus on in the next handful of weeks before the trade deadline approaches. Not every point guard will be able to bring superstar potential, but some big names could ultimately shape the Lakers’ season and we break down six all of them.
Trae Young
Potential Trade Package
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Trae Young
Atlanta Hawks Recieve: D’Angelo Russell, Dalton Knecht, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, 2029 First-Round Pick
The Lakers acquiring Trae Young would be a monumental move, instantly upgrading their offense with one of the most dynamic playmakers in the league. Young, currently averaging 21.5 points and 12.1 assists per game, is an elite scorer and distributor who thrives in high-pressure situations.
His ability to break down defenses, draw fouls, and hit deep three-pointers would perfectly complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis. More importantly, Young’s presence would alleviate the burden on LeBron to run the offense, preserving his energy for crucial moments in the postseason.
From Atlanta’s perspective, this deal could signify a pivot toward a rebuild, especially with Trae Young being linked to trade rumors all season. The Hawks would receive D’Angelo Russell, a capable scorer and ball-handler who can contribute immediately, alongside Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent, two gritty, defensive-minded players who fit Quin Snyder’s system. Adding Dalton Knecht provides shooting potential, while a 2029 first-round pick offers long-term flexibility for Atlanta.
This trade would signal that the Lakers are all-in on competing for a championship. While Young has limitations defensively, his offensive firepower outweighs those concerns. With LeBron’s career nearing its twilight, pairing him with a proven young star like Trae ensures the Lakers can contend for titles now while setting up their future. This move is bold and risky, but it’s exactly the type of gamble the Lakers need to make.
Collin Sexton
Potential Trade Package
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Collin Sexton
Utah Jazz Receive: Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2025 Second-Round Pick (LAC), 2027 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
Collin Sexton might not carry the star power of Trae Young, but his high-energy, fearless playstyle makes him an intriguing option for the Lakers. Sexton is averaging 16.3 points per game this season on 41.8% shooting from three, showcasing his ability to score efficiently in a variety of ways. While not a natural floor general, Sexton’s aggressiveness could provide a much-needed scoring boost off the dribble, helping take the offensive load off LeBron James in critical moments.
For the Utah Jazz, this trade represents an opportunity to prioritize their young core and offload Sexton’s contract. Receiving Gabe Vincent and Jalen Hood-Schifino gives Utah flexibility and developmental potential, while the 2025 and 2027 second-round picks offer additional draft capital. The Jazz are not in win-now mode, so shedding Sexton for future assets aligns with their timeline.
This move isn’t flashy, but it’s practical. Sexton’s relentless style could energize the Lakers, giving them a spark they’ve been missing. His ability to score in isolation and finish at the rim would fit well alongside LeBron and AD, even if his lack of playmaking means the Lakers would still rely on James as the primary initiator. Sexton might not be the long-term solution, but he’s the type of player who can help the Lakers grind out wins in the regular season and playoffs.
Dejounte Murray
Potential Trade Package
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Dejounte Murray
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2027 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
Dejounte Murray could be the perfect fit for the Lakers, combining elite defense with underrated playmaking. Murray is currently averaging 16.6 points, 6.8 assists, and 6.5 rebounds per game, making him one of the most versatile guards in the league and possibly an expendable one considering how the Pelicans could be blowing it up. The Pelicans have made it clear that they want to move on from their core considering the team’s disastrous 5-20 start to the campaign.
Murray’s defensive intensity would drastically improve the Lakers’ ability to contain opposing guards, while his ability to initiate offense would allow LeBron to focus on scoring and facilitating in key moments. Murray’s two-way presence makes him an ideal fit alongside the Lakers’ stars.
For the Pelicans, moving on from Murray could be part of a larger reshuffling. D’Angelo Russell offers New Orleans a scoring guard who can keep their offense afloat, while Jarred Vanderbilt brings much-needed size and defensive versatility. Jalen Hood-Schifino is a young asset with intriguing upside, and the 2027 second-round pick sweetens the deal for a Pelicans team that might need to consider long-term options outside of Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.
This trade has the potential to change the Lakers’ season fundamentally. Murray’s defensive prowess would transform their backcourt into one of the toughest in the league, while his steady offensive game would keep the team’s spacing and rhythm intact. Unlike some riskier options, Murray brings reliability and balance to a Lakers team desperately in need of consistency. This is a move that could solidify their status as true contenders.
Anfernee Simons
Potential Trade Package
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Anfernee Simons
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, 2029 First-Round Pick
Adding Anfernee Simons to the roster would give the Lakers a young, electrifying scorer who can complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Simons, averaging 17.2 points and 4.6 assists per game, is a lights-out shooter with the ability to create his own shot.
His career 38.2% accuracy from beyond the arc would be a significant boost for a Lakers team that often struggles with spacing. Simons is also just 25 years old, making him a piece the Lakers can build around for the future.
The Trail Blazers might consider this trade if they’re focused on building around their young core, including Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe. D’Angelo Russell could serve as a veteran stopgap, while Jarred Vanderbilt provides defensive versatility. The real prize for Portland would be the 2029 first-round pick, which could prove valuable as they continue their rebuild.
This trade signals a long-term vision for the Lakers. While Simons doesn’t bring the same level of playmaking as other targets, his elite scoring and age make him an ideal piece for both the present and future. His presence would unlock the Lakers’ offense, making them more dynamic and unpredictable. Simons might not be the savior, but he’s the kind of player who can elevate a team’s offensive ceiling.
Terry Rozier
Potential Trade Package
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Terry Rozier
Miami Heat Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Gabe Vincent, 2027 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
Terry Rozier is a high-energy scorer who could inject some life into the Lakers’ offense after not reaching the heights expected of him with the Miami Heat so far. Averaging 11.8 points and 3.0 assists per game this season, Rozier has proven he can be a reliable playmaker and shot-creator. His fearlessness in crunch time would give the Lakers another option in close games, especially when LeBron needs to defer. Rozier’s experience as a lead guard makes him a valuable target for a team aiming to contend.
For the Miami Heat, this trade helps them pivot toward a younger direction, especially with Jimmy Butler on the trade market. D’Angelo Russell and Gabe Vincent would provide short-term stability, while the 2027 second-round pick adds a small but valuable piece to their rebuilding effort. Rozier’s contract is sizable, so moving him could provide Charlotte with financial flexibility as they continue to build around LaMelo Ball.
Rozier isn’t a superstar, but his toughness and scoring ability make him an ideal mid-tier target for the Lakers. He’s the type of player who thrives under pressure and could help stabilize the team during the regular season grind. If the Lakers want to make a subtle yet impactful move, Rozier fits the bill.
Chris Paul
Potential Trade Package
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Chris Paul
San Antonio Spurs Receive: Gabe Vincent, 2025 Second-Round Pick (LAC), 2027 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
Chris Paul might be in the twilight of his career, but his leadership and playmaking abilities remain unmatched. Averaging 8.4 assists per game despite being on a young Spurs roster, Paul could step in as the Lakers’ floor general and immediately take over playmaking duties. His ability to control the tempo and execute in the half-court would be invaluable for a team that often struggles in late-game situations.
The Warriors might consider moving Paul to address other needs, especially if they value financial flexibility and depth. Gabe Vincent and two second-round picks provide the Warriors with future assets while freeing up minutes for their younger guards. It’s not a blockbuster return, but it could help Golden State pivot toward a different roster configuration.
This trade is all about maximizing LeBron James’s championship window. Paul’s durability is a concern, but his IQ and passing would elevate everyone on the roster. Adding a player of Paul’s caliber would signal the Lakers’ commitment to winning now, even if it means sacrificing some long-term flexibility.
Which Point Guard Is The Best Fit, Most Realistic To Acquire, And The Most Risky?
Trae Young is undeniably the best fit for what the Lakers desperately need: a dynamic offensive engine who can take full control of the offense and create his own shot. However, acquiring Young comes at a steep price—sacrificing significant depth and future draft capital—and his defensive limitations would demand a heavy reliance on Anthony Davis to clean up mistakes. It’s the bold, all-in move that screams championship-or-bust that isn’t the easiest to accomplish either.
On the more realistic end, Dejounte Murray is the Lakers’ best bet. Murray blends elite defensive chops with solid playmaking, perfectly balancing what this roster lacks without requiring the earth-shattering price tag that comes with Trae Young.
He won’t dominate games like Young, but his versatility on both ends of the floor gives the Lakers exactly what they need to contend this season—consistency, reliability, and a defensive presence that can shore up their biggest weaknesses. The Pelicans also might be looking to blow it up once and for all, so this trade is realistic.
Meanwhile, Collin Sexton and Anfernee Simons fall into the “high-upside role player” category. Sexton brings relentless energy and a scoring punch but lacks true point guard instincts, making him a gamble for a team already leaning heavily on LeBron’s playmaking. Simons, though younger and a lethal shooter, is a risky move because his lack of defensive prowess could create more issues than he solves.
Finally, Chris Paul represents the ultimate wildcard: high risk but potentially huge reward. Paul’s leadership and playmaking IQ could be the stabilizing force the Lakers need in late-game moments, but banking on a 39-year-old with durability concerns feels like threading the thinnest needle in NBA history. Similarly, Terry Rozier sits in the middle ground—a gritty, proven scorer who can add value but is not a transformative piece.
In the end, if the Lakers want a realistic, impactful upgrade that doesn’t mortgage their future, Dejounte Murray is the move. He’s not the flashiest option, but he’s the most complete and dependable player available for the price. If the Lakers are feeling daring, Trae Young is the home-run swing—high risk, high reward—but one that might cost more than they can afford. Either way, the clock is ticking, and for a team in win-now mode, finding the right point guard could make or break their season.
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