The Los Angeles Lakers want to win this season because LeBron James is nearly 39 years old and Anthony Davis isn’t getting younger as he approaches 31 years of age. With a 16-15 record and middle-of-the-pack rankings in offense (17th) and defense (16th), the Lakers need reinforcements immediately because even coach Darvin Ham could be on the hot seat if the pedestrian play continues.
With Lakers players not performing well outside of James and Davis, and frustration slowly setting in with the team, there could be changes coming before the February trade deadline. Other than James and Davis, every player on the roster is expendable and there are five dream targets for the franchise that wants to hang banner number 17 in the rafters. As the Lakers seem to be prioritizing speed and athleticism, here are the five dream targets for the Lakers to come closer to winning the NBA championship this season.
Donovan Mitchell
It is widely being reported that Donovan Mitchell’s future in Cleveland is uncertain and the Lakers could make a blockbuster trade for him this season.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Donovan Mitchell
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, 2028 First-Round Pick Swap (LAL), 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
The biggest dream target for the Lakers, Donovan Mitchell, known for his scoring prowess and versatility, would seamlessly slot into the Lakers’ lineup and form a formidable Big Three alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Mitchell’s offensive skill set, characterized by his ability to create his own shot, excel in pick-and-roll situations, and knock down three-pointers, addresses some of the scoring gaps the Lakers may currently have.
This trio would not only provide a lethal offensive threat but also pose significant challenges for opposing defenses. This season, the shooting guard is posting 27.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game on 35.1% shooting from three. In terms of fit, Mitchell’s perimeter scoring complements LeBron’s playmaking and Davis’ inside presence. This diversity in offensive weapons would make the Lakers a more unpredictable and potent team because their 17th-ranked offense has not been good enough (114.1).
Looking at the future, acquiring a young and dynamic player like Mitchell aligns with the Lakers’ goal of sustained success beyond LeBron James’ playing career. Mitchell, likely to sign a long-term contract, could potentially become the face of the franchise after LeBron’s retirement. His youth, combined with his established star status, would ensure a smooth transition and a continued competitive edge for the Lakers.
Dejounte Murray
The Lakers want an upgrade in the backcourt and while they want to keep Austin Reaves, the chance to acquire an All-Star combo guard could be too good to pass up.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Dejounte Murray
Atlanta Hawks Receive: Austin Reaves, Max Christie, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Dejounte Murray, a dynamic point guard known for his defensive prowess, playmaking ability, and improving scoring, would seamlessly fit into the Lakers’ lineup. His skill set adds a layer of versatility to the team, providing another ball-handler and facilitating offensive plays. This season, the Hawks guard is posting 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.6 steals per game on 37.4% from three.
The prospect of forming a Big Three with LeBron James and Anthony Davis is intriguing. Murray’s ability to create opportunities for himself and his teammates would alleviate some of the playmaking responsibilities from LeBron, allowing him to focus on scoring and overall court management. Murray’s defensive acumen would also complement the Lakers’ defensive identity, potentially making them one of the more well-rounded teams in the league.
Considering the future, Murray’s age (27) and potential for further development make him an attractive long-term prospect for the Lakers. The likelihood of him re-signing on a long-term contract adds stability to the franchise beyond LeBron James’ tenure. Murray, with his work ethic and skill set, could potentially become the face of the Lakers in the post-LeBron era.
With the Atlanta Hawks, Murray has faced challenges in elevating the team to contender status alongside Trae Young which is why he is constantly being linked to the iconic Purple and Gold franchise and these rumors will only continue to grow as the weeks go by.
Zach LaVine
One of the most athletic shooting guards in the NBA right now, Zach LaVine is on the trading block for the Chicago Bulls and the Lakers could capitalize on that immediately.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Zach LaVine
Chicago Bulls Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Zach LaVine, known for his explosive scoring and athleticism, would seamlessly fit into the Lakers’ system alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. His ability to create his own shot, shoot from beyond the arc, and finish at the rim would complement the playstyles of LeBron and Davis because he is great on and off the ball. In a down year, the shooting guard is posting 21.0 points per game on 33.6% from three although his career averages sit at 20.5 points per game on 38.2% from three.
One significant improvement that LaVine brings to the Lakers is his proficiency in transition and on the fast break. With LeBron’s exceptional passing and Davis’s ability to run the floor, adding LaVine to the mix would enhance the Lakers’ transition offense, making them even more dangerous in open-court situations. In order to get a top-10 offense, the Lakers need an improved shooting guard.
At 28 years old, LaVine is in the prime of his career, making him an ideal candidate to be the primary scoring option alongside Anthony Davis for the foreseeable future. His age aligns well with the timeline of the Lakers’ current core, providing both immediate impact and long-term stability. The trade involves parting ways with D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and a future first-round pick, but the potential of having a dynamic trio in LeBron, Davis, and LaVine could justify the cost.
DeMar DeRozan
If young stars are not available for the Lakers to trade for, a veteran dream target has to be DeMar DeRozan who is still one of the best mid-range offensive players in the league.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: DeMar DeRozan
Chicago Bulls Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
While DeMar DeRozan is 34 years old, his scoring prowess and playoff pedigree could add a valuable dimension to the Lakers’ roster. His mid-range game, scoring efficiency, and ability to create shots for himself and his teammates would contribute to the team’s offensive versatility. The Bulls swingman is averaging 22.4 points per game this season while adding 5.5 assists per game so he knows how to impact the game.
DeRozan’s near-acquisition by the Lakers in the past suggests that there is a mutual interest and a belief in his fit within the team’s system. His scoring ability, combined with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, would create a formidable trio. DeRozan’s mid-range game could also provide a different scoring dynamic for the Lakers, adding a layer of unpredictability to their offensive strategy.
The 34-year-old veteran, even at this stage in his career, has demonstrated a commitment to evolving his game. His playmaking ability and basketball IQ could be valuable assets, particularly in scenarios where LeBron James is off the floor or needs to play a different role within the offense. The only thing in the way of this deal is whether the Lakers want to move on from their young backcourt for the sake of a two or three-year acquisition of the aging DeRozan.
Bojan Bogdanovic
With so much drama surrounding the rebuilding Detroit Pistons, it might be time for veteran Bojan Bogdanovic to save himself and compete for a championship alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Bojan Bogdanovic
Detroit Pistons Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Jalen Hood-Schifino
With the Detroit Pistons struggling this season with a ridiculous 27-game losing streak, it might be time for them to start trading some players and making room for youngsters to come into their own. One player that sticks out is Bojan Bogdanovic, the 34-year-old forward who is posting 19.9 points per game on 39.0% from three. No doubt, despite his age, Bogdanovic would be an excellent pickup for the Lakers.
Known for his scoring ability and three-point shooting, he would bring a valuable perimeter threat to the Lakers. His shooting prowess could help space the floor for LeBron James and Anthony Davis, providing additional offensive options and preventing opposing defenses from collapsing on the Lakers’ stars. Bogdanovic’s ability to stretch the floor and create his own shot could be a valuable asset in various offensive sets.
Not to mention, the 6’7” forward is also strong enough to be a defensive enforcer inside the paint and also handle forwards on the wing as well. The Lakers might be able to be clever with their deal for the veteran swingman by only including D’Angelo Russell and rookie Jalen Hood-Schifino while moving LeBron James to point guard and re-introducing Austin Reaves as a shooting guard. If the Lakers cannot trade for one of the aforementioned four All-Stars that have elite athleticism, acquiring Bojan Bogdanovic could be the final target to push the team into a stronger position in the West.
