With two superstar players on the roster and a ton of expectations, the Los Angeles Lakers are competing for the NBA title this season. They are looking for any way to become the favorite in the Western Conference. At 22-23, they have not gotten off to the best start and there is major concern about how they can contend for a ring despite LeBron James averaging 24.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 7.4 assists and Anthony Davis chipping in 24.9 points and 12.2 rebounds per game.
While there might be a dilemma for the team when it comes to solid players such as Zach LaVine or Dejounte Murray, it seems the Lakers are actually aiming big before the trade deadline, targeting either Donovan Mitchell or Trae Young. While it won’t be easy for the Lakers to pull off a deal for either of them, it is still possible that one of these star players forms a Big Three in Los Angeles. Here is how the Lakers can acquire either Mitchell or Young, along with a conclusion as to which player will prove to be the better fit.
A Perfect Short And Long-Term Solution With Trae Young
Trae Young is one of the best offensive players in the NBA and a true star when it comes to scoring and playmaking. Averaging 26.9 points and 10.8 assists per game, Young is almost guaranteed his third All-Star spot this season and is putting up numbers without another star player beside him. No doubt, the Lakers would love to have him handling the ball for them.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Trae Young
Atlanta Hawks Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Gabe Vincent, 2028 First-Round Pick Swap, 2029 First-Round Pick
In the first trade scenario of the Los Angeles Lakers acquiring Trae Young, the team would be gaining a dynamic young talent with superstar stats that he has showcased as the primary star in Atlanta. At just 25 years old, Young’s potential for long-term stardom aligns perfectly with the Lakers’ vision, especially as they plan for the post-LeBron era.
Trae Young’s individual prowess is evident in his superb stats, having carried a significant scoring and playmaking load for the Atlanta Hawks without another star beside him (26.9 PPG, 10.8 APG on 36.4% 3-PT FG). This makes him a valuable asset for the Lakers, particularly when considering LeBron James’ advancing age at 39. Young’s adept ball-handling and playmaking skills could alleviate some of the burden on James, allowing the veteran to conserve energy for crucial moments in the game.
Moreover, Young’s fit with Anthony Davis presents an exciting prospect for the Lakers. Davis, known for his athleticism and ability to finish lobs, could find a perfect lob partner in Young. The synergy extends beyond alley-oops, as Young’s ability to run the floor, feed the big man, and play off of Davis adds a dynamic dimension to the Lakers’ offense.
As part of the suggested trade package—sending D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Gabe Vincent, 2028 First-Round Pick Swap, and 2029 First-Round Pick to the Atlanta Hawks—the Lakers would be making a strategic move to secure a young superstar. This trade not only addresses immediate needs but also sets the stage for a promising future, ensuring that Trae Young becomes a cornerstone alongside Anthony Davis, even when the LeBron James era eventually comes to a close.
A Superteam In Los Angeles That Teams Will Fear
Donovan Mitchell’s future in Cleveland is in doubt because he has not committed for the long term, and staying with the Cavaliers does not seem to be in his best interest. A chance to play in Los Angeles could be too great for the player to ignore, especially if the Cavaliers are convinced Mitchell won’t re-sign.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Donovan Mitchell
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, 2028 First-Round Pick Swap, 2029 First-Round Pick
Donovan Mitchell, at 27 years old and in his prime, is an elite scorer, making him a coveted asset for any team. Averaging 27.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game, Mitchell is the player Lakers fans need. The Lakers, aiming to win now, would benefit immensely from Mitchell’s offensive prowess and playoff experience.
Mitchell’s status as arguably the best-performing shooting guard in the NBA right now adds a layer of excitement to the Lakers’ potential lineup. His ability to create and score in various ways makes him a dynamic force on the court. With the uncertainty surrounding Mitchell’s future in Cleveland, the allure of joining a big-market team like the Lakers may be an enticing prospect for the shooting guard.
In terms of immediate impact, Mitchell has the potential to contribute significantly to the Lakers’ quest for a championship this season. His scoring ability, coupled with his playoff experience during his tenure with the Utah Jazz, positions him as a valuable asset in high-stakes situations. Mitchell has demonstrated the ability to perform well alongside a dominant big man, exemplified by his successful partnership with Rudy Gobert in Utah. Davis being a more dominant big man than Gobert, this is a partnership that could be devastating without even bringing LeBron into the mix.
Mitchell is a solid shooter, averaging 34.9% from three this season and over 36% for his career meaning he can make outside shots when LeBron drives and hands him the ball. A shot-creator as well, Mitchell will immensely relieve LeBron’s load on offense and also has the playmaking skills to keep Davis involved. Without disrespect to the Lakers bench and role player, the only way the team wins a championship as they did in 2020 is if the stars carry them there.
Who Is The Better Fit: Donovan Mitchell Or Trae Young?
In the debate between Donovan Mitchell and Trae Young as the better fit for the Los Angeles Lakers, the decision will be based on short-term or long-term goals. Trae Young, at 25 years old, offers a slightly more long-term perspective due to his age. His ability to score and be a high-level playmaker positions him as a potential cornerstone for the Lakers once LeBron James retires.
Young’s versatility allows him to function as an entire offensive system, providing valuable support to Anthony Davis. However, his high usage might pose challenges, considering the need to mesh well with LeBron James, as demonstrated by the Russell Westbrook experiment that was a disaster.
On the other hand, Donovan Mitchell, while being a better player than Young in terms of size and explosiveness, is a pure shooting guard. In this scenario, LeBron James can continue to handle the ball, allowing Mitchell to shine as a perimeter scorer. The prospect of Mitchell, James, and Davis forming a Big Three is undeniably more intimidating. Mitchell’s scoring prowess and athleticism complement the existing strengths of the Lakers.
Ultimately, the conclusion leans towards Donovan Mitchell as the better fit for the Lakers. While Trae Young may have a slight advantage in terms of long-term potential, Mitchell’s fit within the current Lakers roster, combined with his status as a better overall player and a pure shooting guard, makes him the dream target for Lakers fans. Mitchell becoming a Laker creates the scariest Big Three in the NBA and it wouldn’t be close.
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