These 3 trades could massively change the Lakers trajectory
By RC Nazemi
3. Lakers reunite with Kyle Kuzma
During this holiday season, I just can’t help but love a family reunion. Not only would it be so much fun to see Kyle Kuzma back in the purple and gold, but if you haven’t been paying attention, he’s also been balling out in Washington. So basketball-wise it wouldn’t suck. Gafford certainly wouldn’t be a bad prize either.
Gafford is a young 6’10 center who provides yet again a big body to take the brunt of the blows down in the paint in place of AD. Gafford, who shoots 73% from the field, doesn’t get many minutes in Washington but when you look at the advanced stats you see an extremely efficient big man. Gafford is averaging a double-double per 36 minutes.
When it comes to our prodigal son Kuz, he’s done a bit of growing up while away. Averaging 17 points per game last season and 20 points per game this season, Kuzma racked up a staggering 24 double-doubles last season and already has five this season. He’d provide the Lakers with that perfect big wing player and the perfect three-and-D power forward down the stretch of games.
After the big win on Wednesday against the Dame-less Portland Trail Blazers, the Lakers are looking like they’re hitting their stride and it’s exciting. Whether or not they make a trade is yet to be seen. But as of right now, at least the team is a blast to watch.