The Los Angeles Lakers are no strangers to blockbuster trade rumors-it's practically part of the franchise's DNA at this point. Every year, marquee names get linked to the purple and gold, and every year, fans start dreaming big. But the reality of the modern NBA-tight salary caps, limited draft capital, and a competitive trade market-often brings those dreams back down to earth.
This season looks like more of the same. While the idea of landing a superstar like Giannis Antetokounmpo would light up any fanbase, it’s just not in the cards right now. Instead, the Lakers seem to be pivoting toward a more realistic, and arguably more strategic, path: building out their depth with high-level role players.
According to Lakers insider Jovan Buha, the front office is focusing on attainable pieces-specifically, Sacramento’s Keon Ellis and Atlanta’s De’Andre Hunter. These aren't household names, but they are the kind of three-and-D wings who can elevate a contending roster.
Let’s start with Ellis. The Kings reportedly value him enough to ask for a first-round pick, which could be a sticking point.
But if that price drops, the Lakers could be in a position to pounce. Ellis brings defensive grit and a developing perimeter shot-exactly the kind of player who can thrive alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis without needing the ball in his hands.
Then there’s Hunter, a more established name with a bit more offensive upside. Buha floated a few trade package ideas involving Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, and Dalton Knecht-deals that would keep the Lakers' core intact while adding a wing who can defend multiple positions and stretch the floor.
But once you start talking about giving up a first-round pick or key rotation players like Rui Hachimura, the calculus changes. The Lakers are clearly drawing a line in the sand when it comes to overpaying.
And honestly, that’s the right move. This team doesn’t need another high-usage star.
They’ve already got LeBron and AD, and the offense can hum when those two are healthy and engaged. What they need is balance-guys who can defend at a high level, hit open threes, and make smart decisions without disrupting the flow.
Ellis and Hunter check those boxes. They're not flashy additions, but they’re the kind of players who can swing playoff games-especially when the margin between winning and losing often comes down to who can get a stop or knock down a corner three in crunch time.
One area that still needs addressing, even if these deals go through, is the frontcourt. A defensive-minded big man would help shore up the interior, particularly when Davis isn't on the floor.
But adding perimeter defenders like Ellis and Hunter would be a step in the right direction. They’d give the Lakers more lineup flexibility and allow head coach JJ Redick to mix and match depending on the matchup.
Bottom line: This version of the Lakers doesn’t need a superstar splash. They need glue guys-players who do the little things, guard their position, and hit timely shots. If Rob Pelinka can pull off a deal or two without mortgaging the future, the Lakers could be primed for a strong finish and a deeper playoff run than many expect.