Lakers Players That Could Be Traded By The February Deadline (Complete Breakdown)
The Los Angeles Lakers have hype behind them but don’t have the right mix of talent to realistically succeed in the Western Conference. They are 5-5 right now without a chance to be on the same level as the Denver Nuggets who are considered the absolute favorites to make the Finals again, while the Golden State Warriors and Phoenix Suns might have more talent as a while when compared to the Purple and Gold.
If the Lakers want to make moves, they have to consider that most of their roster is tied up right now. The majority of the roster is facing trade restrictions (until December 15th and even January 15th), so Lakers fans need to be patient until around the Christmas period and possibly longer. Luckily, most of the Lakers roster can be traded by then and there is flexibility in terms of the roster construction, excluding some deadlines.
The only untouchable players have to be LeBron James, Anthony Davis (trade restriction lifts February 6th but won’t be traded regardless), and Jarred Vanderbilt who just signed a multi-year extension (untradable) and is only 24 years old with elite defensive potential. That means the rest of the roster can be moved in an effort to bring a third star to the Lakers and try to make the most of LeBron’s presence with the team.
With The King nearly 39 years old and the Western Conference getting more competitive, it is time to break down the Lakers can realistically move before the February trade deadline. It won’t be easy to create a title-contending team in Los Angeles, but Rob Pelinka has some options to consider. Here is the roster breakdown of the Lakers team who can be traded and which options can be targeted as soon as possible.
Players That Could Be Realistically Traded
D'Angelo Russell (Trade Restricted Until December 15)
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D'Angelo Russell, currently 27 years old, is a talented guard who had his breakthrough All-Star season in 2019. Known for his offensive prowess, Russell's scoring and playmaking abilities make him a valuable asset on the court. However, his previous stint with the Lakers didn't reach its full potential, partly due to the pressure of the bright lights in Los Angeles.
In the current season, Russell is contributing 17.3 points per game and showcasing his playmaking skills with 6.9 assists. His three-point shooting percentage may be lower than desired at 28.6%, but his overall offensive versatility remains a key strength.
Russell's trade restriction until December 15 adds a layer of complexity to potential deals but is on a decent salary ($17,307,693 in 2023, $18,692,307 player option in 2024). However, as the Lakers explore trade options, Russell's prime years and offensive capabilities make him an attractive asset.
The idea of trading him for established All-Stars like Zach LaVine or DeMar DeRozan could bring a fresh dynamic to the Lakers' roster. Given that Russell still has several years of prime performance ahead, teams looking for a younger star might find him an appealing trade target. As the trade deadline approaches, keeping an eye on Russell's potential moves could be crucial for the Lakers' efforts to reshape their roster and enhance their competitiveness in the league.
Rui Hachimura (Trade Restricted Until January 15)
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At 25 years old, Rui Hachimura has established himself as a talented scorer and defender with promising size (6'8", 230 lbs) and potential. While fans have grown to appreciate his contributions, the Lakers may consider trading him to acquire an All-Star-level talent. Hachimura's age is a key factor that makes him an attractive trade piece. He has ample time for further development and could potentially become a bonafide starter in the league.
Hachimura's skill set, which combines scoring and defensive capabilities, makes him a versatile player. His age and potential make him an appealing asset for teams looking to build for the future. The Lakers, in exploring potential trades, might use Hachimura as a key piece to bring in a more established and impactful player.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Lakers will need to carefully weigh Hachimura's potential against the immediate impact an All-Star talent could provide. Hachimura’s salaries including this season for the next three years look like this: $15,740,741, $17,000,000, and $18,259,259. The decision to trade a promising young player like Hachimura will likely be influenced by the team's long-term strategy and aspirations for immediate success, as the forward is posting 12.3 points and 4.2 rebounds per game this season.
Austin Reaves (Trade Restricted Until January 15)
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At only 25 years old, Austin Reaves has generated significant attention and hype, showcasing a well-rounded game with solid offensive and defensive contributions. Despite being a valuable asset, the Lakers might consider him as not quite at the level to be the third option behind stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Reaves' statistical performance, averaging 13.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game, suggests he's a capable starter in the NBA. Other teams may indeed see potential and value in him, making him a desirable trade piece. If the Lakers are exploring deals for players like Zach LaVine or DeMar DeRozan, including Reaves might be a necessary component.
Given his age and promising skill set, Reaves could be an attractive prospect for teams looking to build for the future. However, his trade restriction until January 15 limits the Lakers' ability to leverage him in potential deals until after the New Year.
The shooting guard is on a team-friendly deal for the next few seasons: $12,015,150, $12,976,362, $13,937,574, $14,898,786 (player option). That means Reaves might even be more attractive considering his potential. As the trade deadline approaches, the Lakers may evaluate whether including Reaves in trade discussions is worth the potential return and how it aligns with their immediate and long-term goals.
Gabe Vincent (Trade Restricted Until December 15)
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Gabe Vincent, known for his contributions to the Miami Heat and as the starting point guard during their Finals run last season, has a solid reputation as a player who excels in an underdog role. However, since joining the Lakers, he has faced challenges in reproducing the same level of performance. Averaging only 6.0 points per game and shooting 7.1% from three, Vincent appears to be struggling and potentially out of his depth in the current role.
At 27 years old, Vincent still has several years ahead in his prime, making him an intriguing trade asset. The Lakers, considering their aspirations for immediate success, may see him as a valuable piece in a trade package for an All-Star player. Vincent's trade restriction until December 15 adds a layer of complexity, but his inclusion in potential deals could enhance the Lakers' guard depth while pursuing more established talent.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Lakers will likely weigh Vincent's recent struggles against his proven ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Whether he remains with the team or becomes part of a trade package, Vincent's future with the Lakers will be a storyline to watch as the season progresses.
Players Who Are Moveable But Not Easily
Christian Wood (Trade Restricted Until December 15)
Christian Wood, currently trade-restricted until December 15, is a player who holds value as a bench contributor. Despite averaging 7.4 points and 6.1 rebounds per game in limited minutes (22.1 per game), Wood has shown the ability to make effective contributions when utilized appropriately.
His modest $2,709,849 salary and a player option of $3,036,040 for the next season make him a manageable asset in potential trade discussions. Wood's versatility in providing both scoring and rebounding could be appealing to teams seeking a frontcourt boost off the bench.
The Lakers, as they explore trade options, may see Wood as a valuable piece to include in deals depending on the available trade market. His skill set and contract make him a flexible asset, especially when considering the financial aspects of team building.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Lakers will likely assess the landscape and determine if including Christian Wood in potential deals aligns with their roster-building strategy and immediate needs. The right circumstances and the right trade partner could make Wood a valuable asset for the Lakers as they navigate the mid-season trade landscape.
Cam Reddish (Trade Restricted Until December 15)
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Cam Reddish, currently trade-restricted until December 15, is a player who seems to be gradually realizing his potential, especially since joining the Lakers. Having been a standout player at Duke, Reddish faced challenges in finding his footing with the Hawks, Knicks, and Trail Blazers. However, his trajectory with the Lakers shows promise, particularly in terms of increased confidence and defensive consistency.
While his scoring average is modest at 7.0 points per game, Reddish's improvements in defense and ball movement add valuable dimensions to his game. At just 24 years old and with a relatively low contract of $2,165,000, along with a $2,463,946 player option for next season, Reddish becomes an intriguing trade asset.
The Lakers, considering their roster needs and potential trade targets, may view Reddish as a player with untapped potential. His youth, coupled with the room for growth in various aspects of his game, could make him an appealing trade piece for teams looking to invest in young talent.
Taurean Prince (Trade Restricted Until December 15)
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Taurean Prince, currently trade-restricted until December 15, brings valuable skills as a solid two-way swingman to the Lakers. With the ability to shoot and defend multiple positions (up to four), Prince's versatility and size (6'7" and 218 lbs) make him an effective asset on both ends of the floor.
Starting in all eight of his games, Prince has posted 9.5 points per game while shooting 31.4% from three. While his three-point shooting percentage might be an area for improvement, his defensive capabilities and scoring contributions showcase his overall impact.
On a $4,516,000 contract and set to become a free agent next year, Prince's contract is relatively manageable for teams looking to add depth with a two-way player. The Lakers, as they explore potential trades, may consider leveraging Prince's skills and contract in pursuit of players who fit their roster needs.
Jaxson Hayes (Trade Restricted Until December 15)
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Jaxson Hayes, currently trade-restricted until December 15, is a young and athletic big man at only 23 years old. Despite his potential, Hayes has struggled to make a significant impact with the Lakers, seeing limited playing time at just 8.3 minutes per game over eight games.
His athleticism is a notable asset, but it seems that he hasn't convinced the coaching staff, including Darvin Ham, that he's ready for an increased role. Averaging only 1.6 points and 1.4 rebounds per game, it's clear that Hayes might be better suited for a team where he can receive more playing time and opportunities to showcase his skills.
For teams looking to invest in young talent with untapped potential, Hayes could be an appealing trade target. As the Lakers evaluate their roster needs and potential trade targets, they may consider leveraging Hayes in a deal that aligns with their overall strategy.
Players That Could Be Immediately Traded
Jalen Hood-Schifino
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Jalen Hood-Schifino, a 20-year-old shooting guard standing at 6'6", is a promising young talent for the Lakers. However, his potential impact has been limited due to a right patella contusion that will keep him out for a certain period.
With a salary of $3,695,076 this season and $3,879,830 next season, Hood-Schifino's contract is a manageable asset for teams looking to invest in a young shooting guard with untapped potential. The fact that he is part of the Lakers' organization adds inherent value, as the Lakers have a history of developing and producing talented players.
The right package in a potential trade could be an attractive proposition for teams seeking young, promising talent. As the Lakers navigate through their roster considerations and explore trade opportunities, Hood-Schifino may be a player they are willing to part with to enhance other areas of their lineup.
Max Christie
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Max Christie, a 20-year-old player with an NBA background from his father, is beginning to show glimpses of his potential utility in a rotation. In his six appearances this season, he's posted averages of 3.2 points and 3.3 rebounds per game, indicating a developing skill set that could contribute to a team's depth.
Selected as the No. 35 overall pick, Christie's relatively low salary of $1,719,864 this season and his impending free agency next season make him an interesting trade asset. Young players with room for growth, especially those with NBA lineage, often attract attention from teams looking to invest in developing talent.
While his current contributions might be modest, the potential upside of Christie's game and the flexibility in his contract makes him an intriguing piece in potential trade discussions. As the Lakers assess their roster needs and consider trade opportunities, Christie's inclusion in a deal could add depth or be part of a larger strategy to enhance the team's overall competitiveness.
Maxwell Lewis
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Taken No. 40 overall by the Lakers in the 2023 NBA Draft, Maxwel Lewis has appeared in three games but only played 4.3 minutes per game and has remained scoreless. Lewis is a youngster so a rebuilding team looking to get rid of veterans might ask for the 21-year-old because they might see potential from a 6’7” small forward.
Two-Way Players
Colin Castleton, Alex Fudge, D'Moi Hodge
The three two-way players can be moved immediately if there are any buyers. Castleton is a 6’11” big man who has only appeared in two games so far, and Fudge is a 6’8” small forward who only appeared in one game in garbage minutes. Hodge, a 6’4” shooting guard, has appeared in two games and is averaging 1.5 points per game in limited time. Any of these two-way players can be traded at any time along with the three aforementioned players (Hood-Schofino, Christie, Lewis).
Who Would Be The Best Target For The Lakers?
Analyzing the tradable assets outlined above, the Lakers possess a mix of young talent, proven contributors, and players with untapped potential. D'Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Austin Reaves, and others offer a range of skills, ages, and contract situations that make them valuable trade assets. While some players are seasoned and established, others, like Jalen Hood-Schifino and Max Christie, represent promising youth with potential.
No doubt, the major target has to be 28-year-old Zach LaVine. Acquiring Zach LaVine would inject the Lakers with a dynamic scoring threat and playmaker. LaVine's ability to create his own shot, stretch the floor with three-point shooting, and contribute both as a scorer and a facilitator makes him an ideal fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. His athleticism and versatility would add a new dimension to the Lakers' offense, providing additional spacing and shot creation. He is posting 22.1 points per game this season and a deal might also bring back former Laker and defensive guard Alex Caruso who was linked to the Lakers.
Since the Chicago Bulls could be sellers, DeMar DeRozan could be another target instead of LaVine. DeMar DeRozan, known for his mid-range proficiency and scoring prowess (22.2 PPG), would bring a veteran presence to the Lakers. DeRozan's ability to create in isolation and deliver in clutch moments could alleviate offensive pressure from James and Davis. His experience and scoring consistency make him a reliable option, especially in critical moments during playoff runs.
As a backup option, Buddy Hield could be a great target. His career 40.2% three-point shooting is a standout attribute, addressing the Lakers' need for reliable perimeter shooting. Hield's scoring ability and floor spacing could provide valuable support to James and Davis, creating more open looks for the team. As a consistent threat from beyond the arc, Hield would contribute to the Lakers' offensive balance.
Finally, there could be a shot in the dark at a superstar player. While acquiring a superstar like Trae Young might be challenging, his unique skill set could transform the Lakers into an offensive juggernaut. Young's exceptional ball-handling, court vision and scoring ability make him an elite point guard. Integrating Trae Young would require adjustments, but his ability to stretch defenses and create opportunities for teammates could elevate the Lakers to championship contention. Young's electrifying style of play could redefine the team's offensive identity.
In summary, the Lakers possess a variety of tradable assets that can be leveraged to pursue different types of players based on the team's needs. Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan stand out as primary targets due to their scoring versatility and fit with the existing Lakers' core. Buddy Hield provides a reliable shooting option, while the idea of pursuing a superstar like Trae Young represents a bold move that could reshape the team's future. The Lakers' decision will likely depend on their assessment of immediate needs, long-term goals, and the available trade market opportunities.
