The Los Angeles Lakers kept things mostly low-key at the NBA trade deadline, making a minor move by trading Gabe Vincent and a draft pick to the Atlanta Hawks for Luke Kennard. Kennard has shown promise in his initial outings with the Lakers, but it's unlikely he's the game-changer for their 2025-26 season.
Meanwhile, the New Orleans Pelicans were in the spotlight with trade rumors involving Missi, particularly in talks with the Chicago Bulls. However, they decided to hold onto their 2024 first-round draft pick.
The Lakers have had their eyes on Missi since last summer, and he could be a significant upgrade in their frontcourt. His skill set mirrors the attributes that made Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford effective partners with Doncic during their time with the Dallas Mavericks.
Looking ahead, the Lakers might have more flexibility in free agency this offseason. With LeBron James potentially off the books or on a reduced contract, they could finally assemble a true contender around Doncic. Right now, the hefty contracts of James and Doncic are limiting their options.
Next up, the Lakers face off against their crosstown rivals, the Los Angeles Clippers, at home on Friday evening. It's a matchup that always brings plenty of excitement and drama to the court.