The Los Angeles Lakers are actively looking for perimeter defensive help ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline, but league sources say their options are limited and competition is intense.
Defensive issues were again on display Thursday when Los Angeles allowed 78 first-half points to Utah. Despite an elite offense, the Lakers rank just 21st in defensive efficiency, trailing every top-eight team in either conference.
Coach JJ Redick has been clear about what the roster needs, saying role players must “defend and shoot 3s” to fit alongside Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and LeBron James. The problem is that the same type of player is in demand across the league.
“There aren’t a lot of ’em,” one Eastern Conference executive said. “And everyone wants one.”
Some targets appear out of reach. New Orleans has made it clear it will not move Herb Jones for anything the Lakers can offer, even with an unprotected first-round pick available once he becomes trade-eligible. Jones’ recent three-year, $68 million extension only strengthened the Pelicans’ stance.
Other possibilities come with questions. Sacramento’s Keon Ellis could be available as he nears free agency, though the Kings are believed to be asking for a protected first-round pick. Ellis’ shooting is attractive, but opinions differ on his defensive consistency.
The Lakers have also discussed Andrew Wiggins internally and are monitoring Derrick Jones Jr., who previously played with Doncic.
Additional names mentioned by rival executives include Terrance Mann, Josh Green, and Ayo Dosunmu, though Chicago is expected to seek significant value for Dosunmu.
With only one tradeable first-round pick and limited second-round assets, the Lakers face an uphill battle as they try to address a clear defensive need before the deadline.
Herb Jones, Keon Ellis Among Lakers' Trade Targets To Improve Defense https://t.co/gO8FtIpdK4
— RealGM (@RealGM) December 19, 2025
