In Los Angeles, Lakers GM Rob Pelinka has his work cut out for him as he thinks of ways to make the team better. The Lakers have looked lackluster since winning the in-season tournament last month and many believe only a trade will save their season. While many names could be available for the right price, the Lakers already have the season’s biggest trade target in their crosshairs.
“Teams looking for offense, and that includes the Los Angeles Lakers, are interested in Zach LaVine and his availability. LaVine averages 21 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists and shoots 44.3% from the field, 33.6% on 3-pointers, and 86.6% on free throws. A talented scorer, he has played in just 18 games this season – out since Nov. 28 with right foot inflammation. LaVine is in the second year of a five-year $215.1 million contract,” wrote Lakers insider Jeff Zillgitt.
Initially, it looked like the Lakers were going for more of a subtle team-building approach, with two stars and a bunch of mid-level role players. Unfortunately, that vision hasn’t quite panned out this season as the role-players have been disappointing across the board.
Zach LaVine Is A Wild Card
On the surface, Zach LaVine is a really solid player who is good for 25+ on any given night. In 18 games this season, he’s averaging 21.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game on 44.3% shooting. At just 28 years old, he’s still got plenty of years of elite basketball left and he could be someone who carries the torch for LA when LeBron James ages out. But there are some major questions about Zach right now, especially on his current salary of $40+ million per year.
For one, his playoff track record is almost nonexistent. Without any signature postseason moment to call his own, Zach is still unproven despite his age and he’ll face immense pressure to perform as a Laker. LaVine’s defense is also a hindrance to his value and could upset the work that the Lakers have put on that end of the floor. Needless to say, adding LaVine is a major risk for the Lakers but it could be one that pays off if they play their cards right.
LaVine Sweepstakes In Full Swing
Regardless of what happens in Los Angeles, Zach LaVine’s story will be an interesting one to monitor this season. After an up-and-down tenure with the Bulls, his value and reputation took a major hit and there aren’t many teams lining up to trade for him right now. Even so, Zach has the kind of talent that could shake the NBA’s balance of power, and depending on what his next team gives up to get him, they could move up a rung or two in the NBA hierarchy.
With LeBron James at almost 40 years old, the clock is ticking for the Lakers more than any other team, and trading for LaVine may be the best option on the table when it’s all said and done. But if they don’t do something soon, the Lakers risk wasting away the last good year of an NBA legend.
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