The Los Angeles Lakers have had a largely fruitful offseason. Along with some key additions to the roster, the Lakers have also successfully locked in their superstar, Luka Doncic, for the foreseeable future.
By addressing the majority of their needs, the Purple and Gold find themselves in a much more balanced position moving forward. With a solid roster in place and two superstars who share a common goal, the Lakers are ready to compete.
But with championship aspirations in mind, there is some skepticism about the Lakers’ ability to truly contend. While additions like Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart undoubtedly help, the Western Conference next season will be crowded with competitive teams vying for the top spot.
To address this, the Purple and Gold may need to make a few more moves to reinforce their overall roster strength.
It is also important to keep a roster spot open for a potential midseason buyout signing. Thus, we look at two moves the Lakers should make to ensure their offseason efforts result in success during the regular season.
Trade For Robert Williams III
The Lakers’ biggest issue heading into the offseason was their lack of a big man rotation. Although they addressed it by signing Ayton and re-signing Hayes, the team could still use another reliable big man.
Proposed Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Robert Williams III
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Dalton Knecht, Maxi Kleber
Dalton Knecht and Maxi Kleber have been the primary assets mentioned in recent Lakers trade rumors. Knecht has garnered some interest due to his potential as a sharpshooter and scoring ability. Meanwhile, Kleber’s $11.0 expiring contract could be viewed favorably by a team like the Portland Trail Blazers.
This deal is aligned with the team’s needs. Robert Williams III could prove to be a tremendous backup center to Ayton, should the Lakers succeed in acquiring him.
The 27-year-old has all the makings of a key rotational center. Injuries hindered his performances last season, as he only appeared in 20 games for the Blazers. But he still put up an average of 5.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game.
The former Celtics big man has prior playoff experience, having even made it to the NBA Finals in 2022. He has demonstrated his athletic ability as well, making him an ideal fit in the Lakers’ system.
Most importantly, Williams has showcased impressive defensive upside. His athleticism and strength allow him to establish himself on the low block and become an effective rim protector. This could be vital in the Lakers’ second unit once Ayton is off the floor.
The biggest concern with this trade is his injury-prone nature. When considering that he has only played in a total of 26 games over the last two seasons, the Lakers could be taking a risk by acquiring him.
Sign Kevin Love In The Event Of A Buyout
By completing the trade for Robert Williams III, the Lakers would effectively clear up two roster spots, allowing them to make one more signing before starting the season. In this event, signing Kevin Love could be in their best interests.
Love was traded from the Miami Heat to the Utah Jazz this offseason. The speculation is that the Jazz will buy out Love’s contract soon, making him a free agent. Given the former champion’s preference for a glamor market like Los Angeles, the Lakers would be wise to pursue him.
The five-time All-Star could be a good addition for several reasons.
While he hasn’t been a lethal offensive threat, he remains a solid rebounder and floor-spacing big man. Last season, he recorded an average of 5.3 points and 4.1 rebounds per game while shooting 35.8% from beyond the arc. He only averaged 10.9 minutes per game.
When considering the kind of role he would be asked to fulfill, Love would effectively be a replacement for Maxi Kleber. His existing chemistry with LeBron James would help ease his transition into the rotation, allowing him to be effective sooner.
Love brings a lot of veteran leadership and championship experience to the team. This could be quite valuable for the Lakers as they prepare to mount a title charge in the upcoming season.
Can The Lakers Contend For The Title?
The Purple and Gold will be a more balanced team heading into the next season. With depth in key positions, the Lakers will certainly be a more competitive team. However, their ability to contend for the title will depend upon the performance of their new players, as well as their stars.
In light of his offseason conditioning, Doncic is poised to have an MVP-caliber season if he can sustain this form. Meanwhile, the contributions of players such as Smart and Ayton will be essential in shoring up the secondary scoring and the defense.
If health isn’t a concern, the Lakers could be a dark horse to come out of the West. But given the sheer depth of some of the rosters in the conference, it would be difficult to emerge victorious.
