Why the Lakers could shockingly trade Lonnie Walker IV

3. Lonnie Walker IV hasn’t had the kind of impact on the Lakers that fans think

This is something that we have covered multiple times here at Lake Show Life and if you are a frequent reader then you know where this is going. As previously mentioned, Walker is having a great individual season this year that has increased his value as a trade asset and on the free-agent market.

However, a great individual season does not always mean it is a great season for the team and that has quietly been the case with Walker. If you have casually watched the Lakers or only look at the box score it might seem like Walker has been a massive revelation for the Lakers.

The reality is actually the opposite. While Walker has been great for Walker, he has not been great for the Lakers. Los Angeles’ net rating is actually 7.2 points worse (the worst on the entire team) when Walker is on the floor versus when he is off. The team is 3-1 in games in which LeBron James played and Walker did not.

The biggest issue is the impact he has defensively. Opponents have an offensive rating that is five points higher when Walker is on the floor versus when he is not. The Lakers’ offensive rating is even worse as well. He scores, but the team’s efficiency takes a small hit.

The Lakers could capitalize on the fact that his baseline numbers are really solid knowing that they can probably replace what he brings to the team, especially if Los Angeles makes some kind of upgrade.

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Even if the team just trades Walker for future assets it could be a win for the Lakers all depending on their standing once the deadline rolls around.