The Los Angeles Lakers have shipped Talen Horton-Tucker to the Utah Jazz for Patrick Beverley, sources told Shams Charania of The Athletic.
Added by Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, Stanley Johnson will also be on the move to Salt Lake City, and this deal will be finalized as soon as Thursday.
Los Angeles has been frequently tagged as one of Beverley’s suitors this offseason, dating back when the veteran guard was packaged to Utah by the Minnesota Timberwolves to complete the blockbuster Rudy Gobert trade.
Beverley will join the revamped Lakers team that features the star trio of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook. The move made by President Rob Pelinka signals the desire of L.A. to land one of the most noted leaders and culture changers – which can influence the club to be back in the postseason stage following a horrifying 2021-22 campaign.
Using his vocal demeanor and fiery mentorship, Beverley helped the youthful Minnesota squad in nailing a playoff slot last season, averaging 9.2 points, 4.6 dimes, 4.1 boards in 58 games played (54 starts). The Lakeshow can certainly hope that his presence and contribution will be instrumental on their part in reaching their truest potential this upcoming basketball year.
Meanwhile, this transaction gives Utah great future pieces towards their impending rebuild. Horton-Tucker, still at 21 years of age, will benefit greatly in the growth environment that the franchise will soon offer. The addition of Stanley Johnson gives them more defensive flexibility at the wing spot.
No draft assets were included on the deal. As it is, the Lakers can still make a roster stir for the following days to come upon activating their 2027 and 2029 first-round picks up for a trade.
