
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick recently shared insights into the team’s mindset as the NBA trade deadline approaches. Speaking about the complexities involved, Redick highlighted the challenges of balancing immediate roster needs with long-term planning.
“There’s a lot of factors that go into making any trade,” Redick said, as reported by Dave McMenamin. “I think the new CBA makes it more complicated … And then you certainly have to factor in what our group is now and the value of keeping future assets.”
The Lakers, who currently hold a 23-18 record and sit fifth in the Western Conference, have already been active in the trade market this season. They acquired Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton from the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for D’Angelo Russell and Maxwell Lewis. The move was aimed at improving both depth and defense, areas the team has focused on addressing.
However, rumors continue to swirl about Los Angeles’ potential next moves. The Lakers have been linked to Washington Wizards center Jonas Valanciunas, but league sources suggest the team may be shifting its focus elsewhere. The front office is reportedly exploring multiple options to complement its current roster and bolster its playoff aspirations.
While the acquisition of Finney-Smith has added a versatile defender to the lineup, questions remain about the Lakers’ frontcourt depth. The potential addition of Valanciunas could address this concern, but the cost of such a move remains a critical factor in the decision-making process.
As the February deadline inches closer, Redick and the Lakers’ front office will need to carefully evaluate their options. Their decision could have significant implications for both the remainder of the season and the team’s long-term outlook.