Grade the trade: Lakers swap favorite for Christian Wood in proposed deal

Los Angeles Lakers grade for Christian Wood sign-and-trade: F

Those petitioning for this trade are arguing how Jarred Vanderbilt fell out of the playoff rotation and that he is not much of an offensive difference-maker. Vanderbilt cannot shoot and is a negative on that side of the floor.

That is all true. But Wood is even worse defensively than Vanderbilt is offensively. With so much offensive firepower around Vando, the Lakers benefit more from a defensive specialist that can come in and provide great wing defense.

Vanderbilt is exactly the kind of role player that any contending team should want while Wood is the kind of player that no contending team wants, hence why he has had zero free-agent market. He is a guy who gets good stats on bad teams, does not defend and has not been receptive to taking a smaller role in the past.

This would actively make the Lakers worse. Wood would be unplayable in the playoffs and the moment he doesn’t get the playing time he wants he will give up on the team. Vando is a much better fit, even if he isn’t as flashy as Wood because he can’t shoot.

Dallas Mavericks grade for Christian Wood sign-and-trade: A+

If Dallas was able to get something for Wood that would be a huge win. Not only would the team be getting something for an asset that can simply walk away, but the team would also be getting something for an asset that is outwardly bad for contending teams.

The Mavericks should be pushing hard for this trade and hope that the pressure from some fans (and maybe even the stars on the roster) persuades Rob Pelinka to make the move. This would be a horrible deal for LA but would be an excellent deal for Dallas.