Lakers head coach Darvin Ham made the bold decision to slot LeBron James into the point guard position. However, with a recent string of less-than-stellar performances, marked by a 2-8 record in their last 10 games, the team finds itself in need of a premium point guard or a player capable of making an immediate impact.
The quest for a seasoned floor general has become imperative for the Lakers as they seek to recalibrate and strengthen their roster. The following explores potential trade scenarios that could bring a dynamic point guard to the Los Angeles Lakers, elevating their performance and reigniting their championship aspirations.
1. Kyrie Irving Reunites With LeBron In California
Lakers Receive: Kyrie Irving, Markieff Morris
Mavericks Receive: Pascal Siakam, Gary Trent Jr., Garrett Temple, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Raptors Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Richaun Holmes, Max Christie, 2027 First-Round Pick (DAL)
In this hypothetical blockbuster trade, the Lakers would orchestrate a major move to reunite Kyrie Irving with LeBron James in California, as this piece from Ishaan Bhattacharya shows. The deal involves the Lakers acquiring Kyrie Irving and Markieff Morris, sending Pascal Siakam and Gary Trent Jr. to the Mavericks, and parting ways with D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Richaun Holmes, Max Christie, and a 2027 First-Round Pick to the Raptors.
Statistically, Irving has been a force for the Mavericks, averaging an impressive 22.8 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.5 rebounds this season. On the other side of the trade, Pascal Siakam boasts strong numbers with 22.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.9 assists in 34 games for the Raptors, while Trent Jr. contributes 11.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists to compensate the Mavericks.
From the Lakers’ perspective, acquiring Irving would bring a dynamic playmaker to complement LeBron James. The duo has previously showcased their chemistry, winning an NBA championship together with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Irving’s scoring ability, combined with LeBron’s playmaking, could create a formidable backcourt.
However, the Lakers would be parting ways with D’Angelo Russell, who has been a consistent contributor with 14.8 points, 6.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds. Additionally, Rui Hachimura, providing 11.6 points and 3.6 rebounds, would leave a void in the Lakers’ frontcourt.
The proposed trade could reshape the Lakers’ roster and elevate their championship aspirations in the short term, but it comes with the inherent risk of sacrificing young talent and future assets. The front office would need to weigh the immediate impact of Irving’s arrival against the potential ramifications for the team’s future success.
2. Dejounte Murray Goes Back To The West
Lakers Receive: Dejounte Murray
Hawks Receive: Austin Reaves, Max Christie, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
In this proposed trade scenario, the Lakers would bolster their backcourt by acquiring Dejounte Murray from the Hawks. The deal involves the Lakers sending Austin Reaves, Max Christie, and a 2029 First-Round Pick to the Hawks.
Dejounte Murray, currently averaging 20.6 points, 5.2 assists, and 4.6 rebounds with an impressive 38.3% from beyond the arc in 33 games this season, would add a dynamic and versatile guard to the Lakers’ lineup. His ability to contribute across multiple statistical categories, coupled with his scoring efficiency, could significantly enhance the team’s offensive capabilities.
On the other side of the trade, the Lakers would part ways with Austin Reaves, who has been a valuable contributor with 15.3 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.5 rebounds in 35 games this season. Additionally, Max Christie, a young prospect with potential, and a future first-round pick would be included in the package.
The proposed lineup featuring D’Angelo Russell, Dejounte Murray, Cam Reddish, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis presents a formidable combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive prowess. Murray’s defensive skills, coupled with his offensive output, would complement Russell’s scoring ability and contribute to a well-rounded backcourt.
Acquiring Dejounte Murray could significantly elevate the Lakers’ competitiveness in the Western Conference, but the front office must weigh the cost of parting with valuable assets against the immediate benefits of strengthening the roster.
3. Malcolm Brogdon Gets To Compete Again For A Contender
Lakers Receive: Malcolm Brogdon
Blazers Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Max Christie, 2024 Second-Round Pick (via Clippers)
In this trade scenario, the Lakers would acquire Malcolm Brogdon, providing them with an experienced and well-rounded guard. The deal involves sending D’Angelo Russell, Max Christie, and a 2024 Second-Round Pick (via Clippers) to the Blazers.
Malcolm Brogdon, averaging 15.7 points, 5.6 assists, and 3.5 rebounds in 26 games this season, would bring a balanced skill set to the Lakers’ backcourt. His scoring ability, playmaking, and defensive prowess would add versatility to the team’s lineup.
On the flip side, the Lakers would part ways with D’Angelo Russell, who has contributed 14.8 points, 6.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds in 32 games this season. Russell’s scoring and playmaking have been valuable for the Lakers, but the acquisition of Brogdon could provide a more balanced and experienced presence in the backcourt.
The Blazers would receive Russell, a talented guard who could thrive in a new environment, along with Max Christie, a young prospect with potential. The inclusion of a 2024 Second-Round Pick adds an additional asset to the package.
The proposed trade aligns with the Lakers’ goal of strengthening their roster for championship contention. Brogdon’s ability to contribute on both ends of the floor would complement the existing talent of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The trade, although beneficial for the Lakers, involves the Lakers sacrificing the potential of a young player in Christie and a future draft pick.
4. The Lakers Add Collin Sexton To Their Backcourt
Lakers Receive: Collin Sexton
Jazz Receive: Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2024 Second-Round Pick (LAC), 2027 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
In this proposed trade, the Lakers would bolster their backcourt by acquiring Collin Sexton from the Jazz. The deal involves sending Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, a 2024 Second-Round Pick (via Clippers), and a 2027 Second-Round Pick to the Jazz.
Sexton’s scoring average of 15.9 points per game would contribute to the Lakers’ offensive production. His ability to score efficiently would be crucial, especially in clutch moments or when LeBron James and Anthony Davis are facing defensive pressure. The Lakers would benefit from Sexton’s knack for creating scoring opportunities and relieving some of the offensive burden from the team’s star players.
While Sexton is primarily known for his offensive contributions, his defensive abilities would also play a role in the Lakers’ overall team defense. The Lakers would need to integrate Sexton into their defensive schemes, leveraging his athleticism and quickness to disrupt opponents.
With the arrival of Collin Sexton, the Lakers’ guard rotation would undergo a significant shift. D’Angelo Russell would be replaced by Sexton, bringing a different skill set to the starting lineup. The combination of Sexton and Russell, each with their scoring and playmaking strengths, would give the Lakers a more balanced and dynamic backcourt.
5. Dennis Schroder Earns A New Stint With The Lakers
Lakers Receive: Dennis Schroder
Raptors Receive: Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino
In this proposed trade, the Lakers would bring back Dennis Schroder for a new stint with the team. The deal involves the Lakers acquiring Schroder in exchange for Gabe Vincent and Jalen Hood-Schifino, sending the point guard to the Raptors.
Dennis Schroder, with his experience as a former Lakers player, would provide a familiar face in the backcourt. His skill set, including scoring ability and playmaking, could serve as a valuable asset to the Lakers. Schroder’s on-court chemistry with LeBron James and Anthony Davis from his previous tenure might ease the integration process.
Schroder’s current season averages of 14.6 points and 7.0 assists highlight his playmaking abilities. Acquiring him would bolster the Lakers’ playmaking options, providing another ball handler and facilitator on the floor. His scoring output would add another dimension to the team’s offensive arsenal, potentially alleviating pressure on LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
The addition of Schroder would impact the Lakers’ guard rotation, potentially influencing the starting lineup and the distribution of minutes. The team would need to assess how Schroder fits into their current backcourt dynamics and whether adjustments are needed to optimize the lineup. Schroder’s defensive capabilities, characterized by quickness and tenacity, could contribute to the Lakers’ defensive schemes. Integrating him into the team’s defensive strategy would be essential, as the Lakers have historically placed a strong emphasis on defensive proficiency.
