Lakers Rumors Proposal: With Kuz, a combination of Quinn Cook, Troy Daniels, 2 second rounders and Talen Horton-Tucker.
It has been well documented that the Los Angeles Lakers have limited options to make trades based on the assets flipped for Anthony Davis and players with a no trade clause in their contracts. With the Stepien Rule in effect, that eliminates first round picks being added (Not that the Lakers would want to anyway). To get Derrick Rose in the purple and gold, they would have to hope the Pistons take Kuzma and a combination of these assets.
Quinn Cook:
Quinn Cook has a two-year deal that is one of few tradeable contracts on the Lakers roster. Danny Green was the other, but his inconsistencies at $15 million will make Detroit hang up the phone. The Lakers can actually use his contract to add to Kuzma’s to match salaries. A couple of weeks ago, Cook wouldn’t even be in the discussion. However for the last two weeks, Quinn Cook has showcased his abilities. Remember he led the Lakers in scoring with 22 points in the loss to Orlando.
https://twitter.com/Lakers/status/1217679398331023360
With The Pistons stuck with bad contracts and no clear path to the postseason, Cook’s contract is quite palatable to the owners, who will be looking to save money.
Troy Daniels:
Troy Daniels actually knows that he is basically gone no matter what the Lakers do. They could make a trade here or waive him if Collison comes available. The Lakers got him for one reason. Because he’s a 3-point shooter. The problem is until recently, he may well be the last guy on the bench. When he got in the game, he started firing from everywhere. The look on his face has the message: “If I’m going out. I’m going out shooting.” Can’t be mad at him. It has worked for him the last few games.
Daniels has a one-year, veteran’s minimum deal and will be the perfect throw in on this deal. Sadly for Troy, Detroit can buy him out immediately to save money on the books.
Talen Horton-Tucker:
If you haven’t been following Talen Horton-Tucker’s progress, he is balling out of his mind playing for the South Bay Lakers in the G-League. Just look at the highlights from his recent game against the Memphis Hustle.
Miss the game? @Thortontucker finished with 37 points, a new career high. See how he got there. pic.twitter.com/fJ72ayrA8X
— South Bay Lakers (@SouthBayLakers) January 18, 2020
Would the Lake Show Life staff give up this guy? PFFT, are you kidding? NO! But it depends on how badly the Lakers want Derrick Rose and the price range of the Pistons. The Detroit Pistons will try the blueprint that New Orleans used. Get young pieces for cheap prices.
Throw in a couple of second round picks and Detroit might give Rose up. To all other reports adding DeMarcus Cousins, here’s why you don’t believe them.