The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly exploring options to address multiple needs ahead of the NBA trade deadline. With an eye on bolstering their roster, the Purple and Gold are targeting a center and a point guard to enhance their depth and improve their playoff chances.
According to ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, the Lakers have several trade assets, including D’Angelo Russell’s $18.6 million expiring contract, other expiring deals, and their 2029 and 2031 first-round picks. However, the team faces challenges in addressing all their roster concerns with limited trade capital.
Washington Wizards’ center Jonas Valanciunas has emerged as a potential target for Los Angeles. The 32-year-old big man brings size, rebounding, and scoring in the post, which the Lakers could use to shore up their interior defense and support Anthony Davis.
In addition to a center, rival scouts and executives believe the Lakers are also in the market for a point guard. While Russell has been a capable scorer and playmaker, the team may be looking for more stability at the position to complement LeBron James, who often carries a heavy playmaking load.
The Lakers’ current record of 13-11 places them 8th in the Western Conference, highlighting the need for reinforcements to remain competitive in the tightly contested playoff race.
With injuries to key players like Jarred Vanderbilt and Christian Wood, the front office is under pressure to address the team’s depth issues.
Finding a way to land both a center and a point guard will require creative maneuvering. The expiring contracts and draft picks in their possession offer flexibility, but the Lakers must balance immediate improvements with maintaining future assets.
