The Lakers are winning games, but they’re not standing pat - not with championship ambitions on the line.
According to league sources, Los Angeles is actively exploring the trade market in search of a defensive-minded wing, and one name that’s reportedly high on their radar is Pelicans forward Herbert Jones. The 27-year-old is widely regarded as one of the top three-and-D players potentially available - though that last part is doing a lot of heavy lifting. For now, New Orleans hasn’t shown any signs of wanting to part with him.
And that’s where things get complicated.
The Pelicans still view Jones as a key piece of their long-term core, and there’s been no indication that they’re shopping him. But in the NBA, “not available” can quickly become “available for the right price.” If the Lakers - or any contender - put together a compelling offer, it could at least force New Orleans to pick up the phone.
Jones has played in 19 games this season, averaging 9.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists while shooting just under 40 percent from the field. Those numbers don’t jump off the page, but his impact goes far beyond the box score. He earned All-Defensive First Team honors last season and continues to be one of the most disruptive and versatile defenders on the perimeter - the kind of player who can guard multiple positions and make life miserable for elite scorers.
That’s exactly the type of presence the Lakers are looking for.
Despite their strong 18-7 record heading into Thursday - good enough for third in the Western Conference - the Lakers’ defense hasn’t quite matched the win total. They’re sitting in the middle of the league in both points allowed and defensive efficiency, and there’s a growing sense inside the organization that those numbers need to improve if L.A. wants to make a serious run in the postseason.
Jones fits the bill. He doesn’t need touches to make an impact, and his defensive versatility would give Darvin Ham a valuable tool in matchups against the league’s top wings. Think playoff series against teams like Denver, Phoenix, or even a healthy Clippers squad - Jones could be a difference-maker in those settings.
The big question is whether the Pelicans are willing to entertain offers. For now, they’re holding firm. But as the trade deadline creeps closer and teams start to get more aggressive, don’t be surprised if the Lakers stay in the hunt for a player like Jones - someone who can anchor their defense without disrupting the offensive flow.
They’re winning, yes. But they know they’re not done building.