Lakers News: Experts Explain Major Roadblock In Possible Trade For All-Star Guard
Your 2023-24 Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in a perplexing situation this season, far from the championship-contending team many anticipated.
Their performance all season long, specifically over the last month, suggests the need for a significant change, and trade rumors are swirling around potential targets.
One prominent name in these discussions is NBA All-Star guard of the Hawks, Dejounte Murray, along with Chicago Bulls All-Star guard Zach LaVine.
Despite the speculation, insiders like HoopsHype analyst Michael Scotto and ESPN's Bobby Marks are skeptical about a deal materializing for either Murray or LaVine.
"The Lakers have been linked to Dejounte Murray, but I don’t see them moving Austin Reaves for him," Scotto writes. "Zach LaVine has also come up in trade talks, and names like D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura have popped up, but Chicago’s need for a point guard may have decreased with the way Coby White has played. He’s averaging about 18 points, five rebounds, and five assists. "
"Murray is interesting because he’s making just under $20 million," Marks counters. "What does Russell and a first-round pick do for Atlanta? When you work in a front office, what I’ve learned is that there’s a pride element to things. They just traded for Murray a year and a half ago, and they gave up two unprotected firsts and an unprotected pick swap that has not yet come to fruition. If you’re Atlanta and you’re saying you need to get those back in another deal, I think you’re going to be waiting a while. I don’t think you’re going to get what you gave up for him.
The Lakers, struggling to find their rhythm in the past month, are actively seeking offensive firepower to complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Both Murray and LaVine, known for their scoring abilities and defensive prowess, could address this need.
However, according to Scotto and Marks, the odds of these trades happening seem uncertain. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka, renowned for his adept deal-making, has a history of pulling off unexpected moves. While current reports suggest Murray might be available, the substantial cost the Atlanta Hawks paid for him raises questions about the feasibility of a deal.
On the other hand, the prospect of acquiring LaVine appears to be dwindling gradually. The dynamics of NBA trades are fluid, and developments over the next month leading to the February 8th trade deadline could alter the landscape. Pelinka, known for orchestrating miracles in Lakers deals, might still have a few surprises up his sleeve, and we may need him to do so again.
As the Lakers navigate this crucial period, they will focus on identifying the right player to catalyze a turnaround and reignite their championship aspirations. The next few weeks promise to be intriguing for Lakers fans as the front office weighs potential moves, considering both the short-term impact and long-term implications for the team's success.
