The Los Angeles Lakers are running out of time to win an NBA championship because LeBron James will turn 40 years old in a few months and it won’t be long until age and attrition catch up to Anthony Davis as well. With D’Angelo Russell accepting his $18.7 million player option to return to the Lakers, the team has to make firm decisions on their rosters and that involves gambling away their core to finalize some risky trades.
A Major Risk For Injury-Prone Zach LaVine
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Zach LaVine, 2030 First-Round Pick
Chicago Bulls Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino
Zach LaVine’s acquisition would be a gamble for the Lakers, considering his history of injuries. Despite this, LaVine remains an explosive scorer, averaging at least 20 points per game five times in his career before last year (which was filled with trade rumors and a lack of health). His athleticism and shooting ability could provide the Lakers with a dynamic offensive weapon, potentially transforming their offense when paired with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. LaVine’s capability to create his own shot and score from anywhere on the court would add a crucial element to the Lakers’ attack.
This trade offers the Chicago Bulls a chance to retool their roster with D’Angelo Russell (18.0 PPG, 6.3 APG), Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and Jalen Hood-Schifino. Russell, while inconsistent, has shown flashes of brilliance and could thrive in a new environment where he can take on a leading role. Vanderbilt would bring defensive intensity and versatility, complementing the Bulls’ existing roster. Adding a 2030 first-round pick gives the Bulls a long-term asset to aid their rebuilding efforts.
The Lakers must weigh the risk of LaVine’s injury history against his potential impact. If he can stay healthy, LaVine’s scoring prowess could be the key to unlocking the Lakers’ championship potential. However, the trade also sacrifices depth and future assets, making it a high-stakes move. If successful, LaVine could elevate the Lakers into serious title contenders, but any lingering health issues could hinder their championship aspirations.
Taking A Gamble For Darius Garland
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Darius Garland
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2030 First-Round Pick
The Los Angeles Lakers’ potential pursuit of Darius Garland represents a significant gamble with the potential for high rewards. Garland, an emerging star at just 24 years old, averaged 18.0 points and 6.5 assists per game in the 2023-24 season, showcasing his ability to be a primary playmaker and a scoring threat although he will have to accept being a third option for the next two seasons, at least.
His proficiency as a floor general and his sharpshooting (37.1% from three-point range) could provide the Lakers with a dynamic offensive engine to complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Garland’s youth and upside make him an intriguing target for a team with championship aspirations, but the Lakers must weigh the risks of parting with multiple valuable assets.
For the Cleveland Cavaliers, this trade offers a substantial return. D’Angelo Russell, while inconsistent, is a skilled scorer and playmaker who could step into a significant role with the Cavaliers. Jarred Vanderbilt adds defensive versatility and rebounding, addressing some of the Cavaliers’ needs in the frontcourt. Gabe Vincent provides additional backcourt depth, and Jalen Hood-Schifino brings potential as a young guard. The inclusion of a 2030 first-round pick gives the Cavaliers a long-term asset to aid in their future planning, making this trade a comprehensive package that supports both immediate and future goals.
The Lakers would need to carefully consider the impact of losing multiple assets in this trade. Garland’s ability to elevate their backcourt and provide a scoring punch could be transformative, but the cost is high. By trading away D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and Jalen Hood-Schifino, along with a future first-round pick, the Lakers would be banking on Garland’s potential (and health considering he only appeared in 57 games last season) to propel them to a championship.
Shocking Trade For Brandon Ingram
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Brandon Ingram
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2030 First-Round Pick, 2026 First-Round Pick Swap
The prospect of acquiring Brandon Ingram could be a game-changer for the Los Angeles Lakers, representing a high-stakes move to bolster their roster with a player who has evolved significantly since his previous stint with the team. Ingram, now a two-time All-Star, has developed into one of the premier scoring forwards in the league, averaging 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game in the 2023-24 season. His improved all-around game and scoring ability make him a potentially transformative addition for the Lakers, who are eager to reunite with a player they once drafted and traded away.
From the perspective of the New Orleans Pelicans, this trade offers a substantial haul of assets that can aid in their rebuilding efforts around Zion Williamson. D’Angelo Russell, known for his scoring and playmaking, could take on a leading role in the Pelicans’ backcourt. Rui Hachimura, with his versatility and scoring potential, adds another piece to their forward rotation. Jalen Hood-Schifino provides additional youth and potential, while the 2030 first-round pick and 2026 first-round pick swap offer valuable future assets that can shape the team’s long-term strategy.
For the Lakers, acquiring Ingram would be a bold move, given the cost of giving up multiple young players and future picks. However, Ingram’s proven ability to perform at a high level and his familiarity with the Lakers’ system could make this trade worthwhile. This move reflects the Lakers’ urgent desire to win now and capitalize on Ingram’s growth as a player since his departure.
Hoping For A Secondary Successful Reunion
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Kyle Kuzma
Washington Wizards Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt
Reacquiring Kyle Kuzma could be a strong move for the Los Angeles Lakers, as he returns to a familiar environment where he previously thrived. Kuzma, who was a key part of the Lakers’ 2020 championship run, has developed into a reliable scorer and versatile forward. However, Kuzma has since developed into a primary scoring role and reverting back to a third option could be a risky proposition for both the Lakers and the player himself.
Last season, Kuzma averaged 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, demonstrating his ability to contribute significantly on both ends of the floor. His experience with the Lakers and his scoring ability could provide an instant boost to their offensive and defensive capabilities, especially as they look to capitalize on the remaining prime years of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
For the Washington Wizards, this trade presents an opportunity to reshape their roster with a focus on youth and flexibility. D’Angelo Russell, known for his scoring and playmaking skills, could step into a prominent role in Washington’s backcourt, potentially becoming a central figure in their future plans. Jarred Vanderbilt, with his defensive prowess and energy, would also add value to the Wizards’ frontcourt. This move aligns with the Wizards’ potential rebuilding efforts, providing them with immediate contributors and the flexibility to explore further roster changes.
The Lakers would need to weigh the impact of giving up D’Angelo Russell and Jarred Vanderbilt against the benefits of bringing back Kuzma. While Kuzma’s familiarity with the Lakers and his proven ability to perform in crucial moments could be advantageous, the team is also parting with two valuable players who offer depth and versatility. This trade represents a calculated risk in hoping that Kuzma can quickly integrate back into the Lakers’ system and contribute effectively.
Taking A Stab For A Change At Center
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Brook Lopez, Pat Connaughton, MarJon Beauchamp, AJ Green
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schifino
The potential acquisition of Brook Lopez and others from the Milwaukee Bucks would be a strategic move to enhance the Lakers’ depth and defensive capabilities. Lopez, an elite rim protector and floor spacer, averaged 12.5 points and 5.2 rebounds while providing top-tier shot-blocking with 2.4 blocks per game in the 2023-24 season. Adding Pat Connaughton’s perimeter shooting (35.8% career 3-PT FG) and MarJon Beauchamp’s youthful potential (23 years old) would address multiple needs, while AJ Green offers additional depth.
Receiving D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, and Jalen Hood-Schifino for the Milwaukee Bucks provides an infusion of scoring and versatility. Russell’s ability to create offense and Hachimura’s inside-out game could complement Giannis Antetokounmpo’s playing style. This trade could also be part of a broader strategy to reshape the roster around their core, providing new dynamics and options for the Bucks.
The Lakers would be parting with talented players, but the potential to solidify their defense and add shooting depth makes this trade appealing. Brook Lopez’s presence would anchor the defense, while Connaughton’s shooting and Beauchamp’s development could provide valuable support. This move carries risks, particularly in integrating new pieces, but it offers a pathway to addressing critical areas and strengthening the Lakers’ championship aspirations.
