5 Players the Lakers Should Avoid Trading For
The Los Angeles Lakers will be making calls leading up to the NBA trade deadline on February 6, aiming to strengthen their roster for a shot at contention. The team has been linked to several star players, but their willingness to finalize a deal remains uncertain.
LeBron James and Anthony Davis both want moves that will ease their workload and make the Lakers genuine title contenders this season. However, GM Rob Pelinka is hesitant to commit future assets to a team that might still need more than one change to contend.
The solution lies somewhere in between. There are certain trades the Lakers should prioritize, while others could backfire. Below are some trade options that could cause more harm than good.
New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram (14) dribbles against Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) during the first half at Smoothie King Center.
Lakers Receive: Brandon Ingram, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, Daniel Theis
Pelicans Receive: Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, 2025 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
This potential deal looks great on paper for the Lakers, who offer matching contracts to acquire Brandon Ingram from the Pelicans. New Orleans is reportedly eager to trade Ingram ahead of his 2025 free agency, as they do not plan to extend his deal.
Ingram is having a solid season, averaging 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists, making him a strong offensive addition. His ability to complement LeBron James as a wing scorer and playmaker could be beneficial. However, acquiring Ingram would cost the Lakers key defensive players like Vanderbilt and Vincent.
Moreover, the Lakers would be on the hook for Ingram’s expensive contract in the summer, and they would need to extend him to avoid losing assets. Despite his talent, this trade might not be the best move for the Lakers.
Kyle Kuzma
Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma (33) makes a move on Sacramento Kings forward Keegan Murray (13) during the second half at Capital One Arena.
Lakers Receive: Kyle Kuzma
Wizards Receive: Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, 2025 Second-Round Pick (LAL), 2025 Second-Round Pick (LAC)
A reunion with Kyle Kuzma after four years away is a heartwarming story, but it is unnecessary for the Lakers. After acquiring Dorian Finney-Smith, they already filled the forward position. With Rui Hachimura already looking out of place, bringing Kuzma back midseason would complicate the frontcourt even further, especially given his underwhelming performance this season.
Kuzma is averaging 14.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists, which offers solid rebounding and offensive potential, but the Lakers would be better off using their assets to address more pressing needs. Additionally, Kuzma might want a bigger role than a supporting one, which could disrupt team chemistry.
Overall, this trade is more trouble than it’s worth, especially for a position that doesn’t need immediate attention.
Lonzo Ball
Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball (2) drives to the basket against San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell (24) during the second half at United Center.
Lakers Receive: Lonzo Ball, Torrey Craig
Bulls Receive: Rui Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Christian Wood
Another potential homecoming for the Lakers is the return of Lonzo Ball. Ball last played for the Lakers before being traded to the Pelicans in the Anthony Davis deal. However, after knee issues have sidelined him for a significant time, the Lakers would be better off staying away from this risky trade.
