Grade the trade: Proposal sees Lakers flip D’Angelo Russell for All-NBA big
By Tyler Watts
Los Angeles Lakers land Karl-Anthony Towns in proposed deadline blockbuster
Fans will have to wait for this trade because the CBA prevents recently signed players from immediately being dealt. A ton can change before February, but Minnesota will still have a glut of big men and the Lakers plan on being all-in as LeBron James will have already turned 39.
Russell is the most tradeable contract on LA’s books, but sending him back to Minnesota seems problematic. The 6’4 guard had plenty to say about his stint with the Wolves, and that alone could prevent the reunion.
The Bulls feel like the perfect third team. They are searching for a point guard after receiving a disabled player exception for Lonzo Ball, and Chicago has assets that can help make the salary-matching work.
The Lakers give up Russell, Hachimura, one first-round draft pick, and two seconds to get KAT. It is a similar package to what the Mavericks traded for Kyrie Irving at the 2022 deadline, and Towns could be ready to move on if the Wolves get off to a rocky start. Minnesota takes three role players, one first-rounder, and four seconds in return for Towns as the Bulls snag D-Lo.
Lakers fans may not want to part with Rui after his incredible playoff run, but getting a two-time All-NBA big man should ease those concerns. It is a hefty price to pay, but acquiring a star will always take one.
Who does this trade grade out for the Los Angeles Lakers?