Los Angeles Lakers remain active in the trade market as the February 5 deadline approaches, with the front office still prioritizing the addition of a bigger, two-way forward, according to Marc Stein of The Stein Line.
The search is focused on a player who can contribute on both ends of the floor rather than a short-term depth piece.
Los Angeles has previously been connected to Herb Jones and Keon Ellis, though the New Orleans Pelicans have consistently pushed back on inquiries involving Jones as well as Trey Murphy III, signaling little interest in breaking up their core.
Stein notes that the Lakers are being selective with their assets, particularly their future cap flexibility.
Any willingness to compromise long-term financial plans would hinge on landing what the team views as a true difference-maker at the forward spot, rather than a marginal upgrade.
The urgency has been heightened by recent on-court results, as head coach JJ Redick openly voiced frustration with the team’s defensive effort following a lopsided loss to the Phoenix Suns.
Complicating matters further, the Lakers’ available future first-round pick in either 2031 or 2032 is reportedly viewed around the league as less enticing following the Luka Doncic trade elsewhere.
The franchise’s recent ownership change under Mark Walter has also influenced how rival teams assess Los Angeles’ long-term draft capital.
Lakers Still Looking To Acquire Two-Way Forward https://t.co/R24CO8UYYy
— RealGM (@RealGM) January 4, 2026
