The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to be very active ahead of the trade deadline. The Purple and Gold are trying to turn things around after a tumultuous start to the season, and they’re reportedly ready to make big changes trying to assemble the best team for the second half of the season.
While Russell Westbrook draws all the attention in trade rumors, the Lakers have more players that could leave the squad this season if things don’t improve in the next couple of weeks.
One of the players who was deemed ‘untouchable’ in prior seasons could be available in trade talk, according to recent rumors. Talen Horton-Tucker, one of the young players on the team, could be on his way out if a rival decides to make a move for him.
“Meanwhile, the Lakers are trying to find help, though their options appear limited,” wrote Dan Woike and Broderick Turner of the Los Angeles Times. “According to people with knowledge of the situation, the team is shopping 21-year-old Talen Horton-Tucker in trade discussions.”
Ever since he made a good impression in the Orlando bubble, THT has drawn more and more attention around the league. Last season, he was a very sought-after player, included in rumors linking the Lakers with a move for Kyle Lowry and more. This season, the 21-year-old’s level has decreased and he’s not getting the same attention as before.
That could ruin the Lakers’ plans to get a good return for Horton-Tucker, but his market seems to be bigger than Russell Westbrook. The Lakers are looking for answers and it seems like they’re looking where they didn’t before. THT has averaged 10.6 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 28 games this season. He’s shooting 40.9% from the field and 77.8% from the free-throw line.
Where he’ll play next? That’s a mystery. Still, the Lakers appear to have changed their mind on this player, and that shows how difficult things have been this season.
