NBA Trade Season Kicks Off

The NBA trade season is upon us, and the Los Angeles Lakers are poised to make moves as they look to enhance their roster. However, the road ahead may not be easy due to limited assets and a shortage of sellers on the market.

Challenges Ahead for the Lakers

Among the potential trade targets, New Orleans Pelicans swingman Herb Jones stands out as an ideal defensive stopper for teams like the Lakers. Despite this, acquisition costs for Jones are rumored to be beyond what the Lakers can afford, according to NBA insider Marc Stein. While the team faces limited options, they are not entirely devoid of possibilities.

What the Lakers Have to Offer

The Lakers still boast a future first-round pick, first-round pick swaps, significant salaries, and rookie Dalton Knecht to entice potential trades. However, last season's addition of superstar Luka Dončić has diminished the value of their future first-round picks. Despite this obstacle, the Lakers remain eager to add depth in the 3-and-D market, a crucial area of need given their poor performance in three-point shooting and defensive metrics.

Defensive Needs and Options

Currently, the Lakers rank poorly in defensive efficiency, particularly with the likes of Dončić, Austin Reaves, and LeBron James on the floor. This urgency adds weight to their desire for a player like Jones, even if his price may be too high.

Looking at Keon Ellis

As the Lakers navigate their options, Keon Ellis of the Sacramento Kings has emerged as a more attainable target. Described as a headliner in the 3-and-D market, Ellis's playing time has notably decreased, which may lower his trade value. Despite his current slump, he has a track record of success with shooting percentages that suggest he can perform better with the right support.

A Change of Scenery

For the Lakers, acquiring Ellis could be a low-cost, high-reward move. With the right circumstances to unleash his defensive skills and provide him with open shooting opportunities, Ellis could be a game-changer. Such a minor addition could help address significant team needs and potentially propel the Lakers toward their playoff ambitions.