Lakers Rumors: Young core would only be available for a superstar

Recent Lakers rumors have been about whether or not the young core of the Los Angeles Lakers would be available in a trade.

With December 15th being the first day where players who were signed this offseason can be traded, Lakers rumors are starting to pick up. Despite a loss to the Houston Rockets recently, the Lakers are playing some very good basketball of late.

Even though they have been without Rajon Rondo and Brandon Ingram of late, the Lakers are finding ways to win. LeBron James is playing at an MVP level, and the young core of the Lakers is performing well alongside him.

As we get closer to the NBA Trade Deadline, there are going to be a lot of rumors surrounding the Lakers with their young core and desire to add a superstar. Recently, Brad Turner of the L.A. Times talked about any potential rumors surrounding the young core. Here’s what he had to say.

"The Lakers have informed teams that have called about trade proposals that they will not give up any of their young core unless it’s for a superstar player, one person said."

This certainly makes a lot of sense for the Lakers as of now. Even though injuries have been an issue so far this season, the Lakers still find themselves near the top of the Western Conference. So far, expectations have been exceeded, as many thought it would take months for the Lakers to gel as a team.

While adding James has certainly been the biggest factor in the Lakers’ improvement this season, the young core has also done very well. Moving Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, Josh Hart, or Brandon Ingram for a rental player or someone who might only help the team this season makes little sense.

The Lakers have been extremely hesitant to move any of their young players or draft picks, and it has worked out well thus far. However, if a superstar like Anthony Davis for example did become available, the Lakers would have to consider moving pieces of the young core.

Acquiring a superstar in a trade during the season currently seems unlikely. However, with this report, we can rule out anyone from the young core being moved for a player like Trevor Ariza, who has been linked to the Lakers.