As the NBA trade deadline draws near, the Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in familiar territory - weighing their options in a market that could shift the balance of power in the West. While a blockbuster deal always looms as a possibility, the more realistic path for L.A. might be a savvy, under-the-radar move. And right now, all eyes are on Jose Alvarado.
According to recent reports, the Lakers are among a group of teams - including the Knicks, Rockets, and Spurs - showing interest in the Pelicans’ tenacious backup point guard. Alvarado, listed at 6 feet tall, is known far more for his relentless defensive energy than for eye-popping box score numbers.
The asking price? Reportedly multiple second-round picks, with Alvarado holding a $4.5 million player option for next season.
Let’s break down why this could make sense for the Lakers.
First off, Alvarado brings a defensive edge that’s tailor-made for playoff basketball. He’s the kind of guy who picks up full court, pressures ball handlers the entire length of the floor, and forces opposing guards into uncomfortable situations. That kind of intensity doesn’t always show up in the stat sheet, but it can change the tone of a game - especially when coming off the bench.
This season, Alvarado is averaging 7.9 points and 3.2 assists per game, shooting 42.4% from the field and 36.3% from deep. Those aren’t numbers that scream "game-changer," but they’re solid for a second-unit guard who knows his role. He’s a drive-first player who can knock down the occasional three, keeping defenses honest while creating chaos on the other end.
Defensively, he’s averaging 1.0 steals per game - a number that doesn’t fully capture his impact. Alvarado has a knack for disrupting rhythm, whether it’s poking the ball loose, jumping passing lanes, or simply wearing down primary ball handlers over the course of a game. He’s the kind of pest every team loves to have and hates to play against.
For the Lakers, who are still searching for consistency from their bench unit, Alvarado could be a valuable addition. He wouldn’t need to carry the offense or play heavy minutes, but his energy, defensive pressure, and ability to spark momentum could be a meaningful boost - especially in tight games or against second units that struggle with ball control.
It’s not a flashy move, but it’s the kind of deal that can quietly pay off in April and May. If the Lakers can land Alvarado at the reported price, it might just be the kind of smart, low-risk acquisition that helps stabilize their rotation and gives them an edge in the postseason grind.