5 Trades That Could Turn The Lakers Into Contenders

The Lakers could capitalize in a similar manner to the first trade by buying low on Harrison Barnes stock. Again, Houston’s first rounder switches hand, but depending on how Barnes performs early in the year, he could be gotten for even lower.

The Warriors, on top of a first round pick, get a young player in Henry who could come in and fill the minutes left by Barnes. If healthy, Henry has a similar, explosive play style to Barnes. Add in Kelly, who could provide some front court depth, and they fill a couple holes. Consider Kelly the third member Splash Bros.

The Lakers get a young wing player to come under Bryant’s wing. With just two more years for Bryant, if the Lakers are going to bring in a young player, it needs to be done sooner rather than later to get the most out of Bryant and even someone like Nash this season. The duo of Barnes and Randle could lead the Lakers to the playoffs.