The Los Angeles Lakers need to make changes as soon as possible or risk falling out of the playoff race. With a poor 20-21 record, a 19th-ranked offense, and a 16th-ranked defense, the team simply cannot compete at a high level with any of the top teams in the NBA regardless of the conference.
Despite LeBron James’ numbers (24.7 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 7.5 APG) and Anthony Davis playing like an All-Star (25.1 PPG, 12.2 RPG, 2.5 BPG), the Lakers are not where they need to be and there are two trades available for them right now. By targeting an improved backcourt that actually boosts their offense and defense at the same time, contending for the championship can be a legitimate target.
The first deal involves Dejounte Murray and the Atlanta Hawks.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Dejounte Murray
Atlanta Hawks Receive: Austin Reaves, 2029 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected)
This deal sees the Lakers land Murray after being interested in a deal for the star since he allegedly was put on the trade block by the Hawks who need to rebuild as soon as possible. Adding one new guard won’t be enough, as the Lakers could add another scorer who generates his points from beyond the arc.
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Buddy Hield
Indiana Pacers Receive: Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, 2025 Second-Round Pick
Buddy Hield has been on the trading block for a while and also linked to the Lakers for the past few seasons, meaning this trade has been in the cards and will likely get done for this package. No doubt, Hield would love to use his career 40.1% 3-point percentage alongside LeBron James.
Hawks Kickstart Their Rebuild Around Trae Young
From the Atlanta Hawks’ standpoint, the proposed trade involving the Los Angeles Lakers presents their rebuilding efforts centered around Trae Young. Acquiring Austin Reaves, a 25-year-old player showcasing promising two-way abilities, bolsters the team’s depth. Reaves is averaging 15.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game on 34.4% from three this season and while he isn’t an All-Star, he can be a long-term replacement for Dejounte Murray alongside Trae Young.
The 2029 first-round pick, lottery-protected, enhances the trade’s appeal, providing the Hawks with a valuable asset for their future. Considering the inevitable transition for the Lakers with LeBron James retired and Anthony Davis in the twilight of his career, the 2029 draft pick becomes particularly significant.
This trade signifies the Hawks’ commitment to a balanced rebuilding strategy, incorporating both the immediate impact of trading their player on the trading block and future assets to position the team competitively in the post-LeBron and post-Davis era where the Lakers might not be very good.
Pacers Finally Trade Hield, Get Younger With Rui
For the Indiana Pacers, the trade involving Buddy Hield going to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and a 2025 second-round pick represents a strategic move aimed at getting younger and potentially reshaping their roster. By parting ways with Buddy Hield, the Pacers are signaling a shift in their approach, prioritizing youth and potential over immediate contributions.
Rui Hachimura, a young and talented forward, becomes a key piece in this transition. His potential upside and the prospect of his long-term development align with the Pacers’ desire to build for the future. The Japanese national is averaging 11.8 points and 3.6 rebounds per game at 25 years old, so he has value as he continues to improve his all-around game.
Gabe Vincent provides additional depth and a steady point guard presence, contributing to the team’s goal of getting versatile around superstar Tyrese Haliburton. The inclusion of a 2025 second-round pick adds another asset for the Pacers, offering flexibility in future roster moves. By moving on from Hield, the Pacers can get younger with more potential for long-term success.
Lakers Will Add An All-Star Point Guard And A Shooter That LeBron Needs
No doubt, the Lakers win these deals even if they are losing two very talented young players and a valuable first-round pick. In the case of Dejounte Murray, his arrival brings a dynamic and well-rounded skill set to the Lakers. Murray’s defensive prowess, combined with his playmaking ability, speed, and athleticism, positions him as an ideal fit for the team’s aspirations.
Shifting D’Angelo Russell to a 6th man role off the bench provides valuable depth and scoring options, creating a formidable rotation in the backcourt. Murray’s versatility enhances the Lakers’ defensive capabilities, while his playmaking skills contribute to the offense as he is posting 20.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 1.3 steals per game this season with the Hawks.
Meanwhile, the acquisition of Buddy Hield serves as a targeted solution to address the Lakers’ offensive needs when it comes to shooting. With the team currently ranked 19th in offense, Hield’s scoring ability and proficiency as a shooter become crucial components (career 38.0% 3-PT FG, 37.6% this season). His reputation as a reliable three-point threat makes him a perfect system player around LeBron James, providing the necessary spacing and floor stretching that complements James’ playmaking style. Hield is posting 12.7 points per game in a bench role this season for the Pacers.
The longstanding link between Hield and the Lakers in previous seasons now materializes, indicating that the timing is right for this move. Overall, the combination of Dejounte Murray and Buddy Hield addresses both ends of the court, improving their offense with better shooting and defense with two high IQ players.
Expect The Lakers To Become A Title-Favorite With These Trades
With the proposed trades bringing Dejounte Murray and Buddy Hield to the Los Angeles Lakers, there’s a sense of optimism that the team is poised to reclaim its status as a title favorite. The acquisitions address key deficiencies, providing the Lakers with a revamped starting lineup and a new Big Three alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Remember, Murray was an All-Star in the 2021-22 season.
The improved shooting, especially with Hield’s three-point proficiency, directly addresses a significant weakness, lifting the Lakers from their 28th ranking in 3PM (10.9 3PM). The potential synergy between the new additions and existing talent suggests that the Lakers could not only climb back above .500 but also secure a top-5 seed if the players click. This, in turn, alleviates pressure on Coach Darvin Ham, allowing him to focus on strategic coaching.
Rob Pelinka’s adept maneuvering in orchestrating these trades showcases his magic once again, reminiscent of last year’s Western Conference Finals run following the Russell Westbrook trade. As the Lakers gear up with enhanced shooting from Hield and improved ball-handling coupled with elite defense from Murray, the team stands on the path of resurgence, positioning themselves as serious contenders for the NBA title.
