The Los Angeles Lakers are officially in trade season mode, and the front office is working the phones.
According to reports, the Lakers are actively exploring deals to bolster two key areas: perimeter shooting and rim protection. It’s no secret that LA’s roster has struggled to find consistency on both ends of the floor, and with the trade deadline fast approaching, General Manager Rob Pelinka is looking for reinforcements. But don’t expect a blockbuster-this is shaping up to be a hunt for value.
The Lakers have about $40 million in expiring contracts at their disposal, including Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Maxi Kleber. That kind of financial flexibility gives them options, but it also comes with constraints.
LA is walking a tightrope when it comes to the NBA’s new collective bargaining agreement. They’re just $1.1 million below the first tax apron, which means they can’t take back more money than they send out.
That limits their ability to swing big deals unless they’re willing to take on long-term salary-something they’ve reportedly been hesitant to do.
One Western Conference executive summed it up: “They’re going to be looking for bargain deals, and they might be able to find one if they’re willing to take on long-term money.” Translation: the Lakers aren’t chasing stars-they’re looking for the right role players at the right price.
Names like Jarred Vanderbilt and rookie Dalton Knecht have surfaced as potential trade chips. Add those to the mix with the expiring contracts, and LA has a few different paths to explore. The team also holds one tradable first-round pick and up to five potential pick swaps, which could sweeten the pot if the right deal emerges.
Targets? The Lakers have reportedly shown interest in New Orleans forwards Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones-two young, versatile defenders who could slot in nicely alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
But there’s a catch: the Pelicans aren’t exactly eager to part with either of them. Both players are integral to New Orleans' core, and prying them loose would likely require more than LA is willing-or able-to give.
Other names to keep an eye on: Sacramento’s Keon Ellis and Brooklyn’s Haywood Highsmith. These aren’t headline-grabbing players, but they fit the mold of what the Lakers are looking for-defensive-minded wings who can contribute without breaking the bank.
All of this is happening as the Lakers try to get back on track. After a brief three-game winning streak earlier this month, they’ve dropped four of their last five and currently sit fifth in the Western Conference standings with a 24-15 record. Saturday night’s matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers presents an opportunity to steady the ship, but the bigger picture is clear: if LA wants to make a serious postseason push, they’ll need to fine-tune this roster.
Pelinka and the front office have their work cut out for them. The margin for error is slim, and the market is competitive. But with the right move-or two-the Lakers could shore up their weaknesses and give themselves a better shot come playoff time.