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Fact or fiction: Bleacher Report’s top 3 trade targets for Lakers

By Caleb Crowley

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 04: Bojan Bogdanovic #44 of the Detroit Pistons shoots the ball against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on January 04, 2023 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 04: Bojan Bogdanovic #44 of the Detroit Pistons shoots the ball against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on January 04, 2023 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
(Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images) /

Trade target No. 1 – Bojan Bogdanovic, Detroit Pistons

Ever since Bogdanovic was traded from Utah to the Detroit Pistons, his name has never left trade speculation. The 34-year-old sharpshooter has the perfect skill set for a contending team, but the Pistons are seemingly not in a position to make a title run yet. Thus, plenty of teams have an interest in trading for Bogdanovic.

It goes without saying that a career 39.4 percent 3-point shooter with consistent defense is a great trade target for the Lakers. The problem is he also is the perfect target for the other 29 teams, including Detroit. So far, the Pistons have been happy to keep Bogdanovic as a veteran leader for a developing roster.

Last season, in his ninth NBA season (after three years overseas) Bogdanovic recorded a career-high 21.6 points per game on 41.1 percent 3-point shooting. At 6-foot 7-inches, he would be a perfect forward with the Lakers, either in a starting or bench role.

Trading for him would create one problem for the Lakers, though. It would be difficult to balance the minutes at the 3 and 4 spots for him, LeBron, Hachimura, and Jarred Vanderbilt. All four players would deserve a healthy chunk of playtime with a limited amount available. In other words, Bogdanovic only gives the Lakers a good problem.

Admittedly, Bogdanovic is not a star by any means. He is a proven veteran, though, and the Lakers do not need a third star to contend. In their 2020 Finals run, Los Angeles was built around James and Davis with solid role players. Austin Reaves may be emerging as a star, as well, meaning the best fit for the Lakers is a player who knows how to fill a role and can defend taller wings. Bojan Bogdanovic is that.

The only question is whether the Lakers have the assets for him without losing too much. If they can, his arrival to Los Angeles would be a welcome addition. Bogdanovic could slot right into the Lakers’ rotation and playstyle, making him a fantastic option if a balanced deal is struck.

VERDICT: Fact

In the end, Bleacher Report’s trade targets for the Lakers show two things. Firstly, the job is not done this offseason. While they were active and productive, the Lakers can continue to improve. Secondly, they are almost there. There is no need for a big splash or roster overhaul. The Lakers will have a more consistent lineup this season than seasons prior.

Next. Lakers trade for All-Star center in recent proposal. dark

The Lakers will look to compete to overtake the Boston Celtics in Finals wins all-time. With their depth and star power, it is not out of the realm of possibility, and a smart trade for another role player would be greatly beneficial.

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