The Los Angeles Lakers are approaching the NBA trade deadline with several different options on the table. They could make a major move to benefit the team this season, make more subtle additions, or choose to sit tight. No matter the approach, LeBron James’ priority remains the same: competing for a championship.
“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Rich Paul told ESPN. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we’ve had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.”
James has been an intriguing figure to monitor as the season has progressed. During the summer, there was an unusual dynamic between the Lakers and James, one that prompted ESPN’s Brian Windhorst to suggest a trade could be possible.
“My conversations over the last 3 days have crystallized that the Lakers are essentially viewing LeBron as an expiring contract… I’m just unlocking the door because I am not as convinced as before if it’s impossibility,” Windhorst said.
While James does not appear likely to be moved at the deadline, the Lakers are focused on building around him and Luka Dončić. One name to monitor is New Orleans Pelicans forward Saddiq Bey, especially after Keon Ellis and De’Andre Hunter were moved in the same deal.
“The Knicks, Lakers and Suns are among the teams to recently inquire with the Pelicans on Saddiq Bey. Over the past month, Bey is averaging 21.2 points, 6 rebounds and 2.6 assists while shooting 44.4% on threes. Bey is generating strong trade interest during his hot stretch,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.
As currently constructed, the Lakers are not built to make a championship run or seriously contend. However, a few well-timed moves could drastically change the trajectory of their season.
It will be interesting to see how the Lakers’ front office navigates the trade deadline, given the multiple timelines currently on the roster. If Los Angeles opts to stand pat, it will be clear that the organization is preparing to go all-in during free agency this summer.
