The Lakers could realistically trade Jalen Hood-Schifino
Just like with Hachimura, the Lakers are not going to be making phone calls with the intent of shopping Jalen Hood-Schifino around the league. Los Angeles just took Hood-Schifino with the 17th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, after all.
However, just like with Hachimura, one thing could lead to another and Hood-Schifino could become an integral part of a bigger trade. If the Lakers are trying to hit a home run for a star then the other team involved in the trade would likely ask for the young rookie.
Whether or not it would be worth it would depend on what kind of star the Lakers are getting in return. While Hood-Schifino is a solid young player with potential, he was taken outside the lottery and doesn’t seem to have the makeup of being a future all-star. He could be a very solid role player in the future, but all-star might be stretching it.
If the Lakers end up getting someone who exponentially increases the chances of winning a championship this season then it would be worth it. If the team got a marginal star that doesn’t move the needle then it wouldn’t age well at all for LA.
One important thing to remember about Hood-Schifino is the fact that he is only 20 years old. While he has potential and there are promising parts of his game, he probably won’t be able to consistently contribute in the rotation until his third season.
There is nothing wrong with keeping him on the roster and developing him for the future. But if the Lakers want to capitalize on the current title window, and have a trade to do it, then Hood-Schifino definitely will be on the table.