The Lakers may be watching the Clippers’ latest mess with more than a little interest.
With Los Angeles’ other team now facing a fine and the loss of five first-round picks, the question is whether that pressure forces the Clippers into decisions they wouldn’t otherwise make. Steve Ballmer is also dealing with a tough suspension, and for now, the league’s punishment leaves plenty of uncertainty about what comes next.
That uncertainty opens the door for the Lakers to take a swing at a player like Derrick Jones Jr., who has been mentioned as a possible trade candidate. Jones is the kind of wing Luka Doncic meshes with well, and a Sports Illustrated piece from Zion Trammel laid out why he could be available.
“Jones Jr. has put up nearly identical numbers through his first two seasons with the Clippers,” Zion Trammel wrote.
“He averaged 10.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, one block, and one steal per game. He started 45 games last year, but with the additions of Brandon Ingram and Rui Hachimura, Jones Jr. would likely have a reserve role.
Like (Kris) Dunn, he provides valuable defense as a forward and is in the final year of his contract. He’s owed $10.4 million.
If not before the season, teams will line up for Jones Jr. at the trade deadline.”
For the Lakers, the appeal is obvious. A defender like Jones would fit a need, and there’s a case to be made for moving on from some current pieces to get a player of his caliber.
The problem is the Lakers’ cupboard. They do not have a lot of assets to work with, and if the Clippers are focused on stacking picks and solid returns after this whole situation, there may be other offers on the table that beat what the Lakers can put together.
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