As of today, December 29, the Lakers sit with a 9-22 record, the fifth worst record in the NBA. Despite the front office’s public sentiment, the Lakers are not a good team. Currently, they’re running the risk of losing their draft pick, which will only be kept if they’re pick is in the top five. On top of that, they are devoid of assets as is with their strongest weapon being Houston’s first round draft pick in 2015, which will likely fall at the end of the first round.
The decision must be made. Currently, they’re on pace for ~25 wins, which would likely put them just outside the top five. If they make no moves and continue that pace, it’s likely they’ll forfeit their pick to the Phoenix Suns, making this season almost entirely a lost cause.
Or, the Lakers could start dismantling the ship, selling off any parts for draft picks and young assets, with the former being the more preferred choice. Loaded with expiring contracts, the Lakers are in prime position to be active members during the frenzy of the NBA trade deadline. With the deadline set for February 19, the Lakers have roughly a month and a half to make any moves.
Let’s take a look at five trades the Lakers could make involving five different players in an effort to improve their bleak situation heading into next off-season.