Grade the trade: Lakers add Dillon Brooks in absurd proposal
By Tyler Watts
What a Los Angeles Lakers for Dillon Brooks trade might look like
Brooks is one of the most divisive players in the NBA. The 6’7 wing is an elite defender and one of the best at guarding the likes of LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Beyond that, he has the confidence of a number one offensive option, but the shot selection and efficiency of someone who should not get off the bench. The 6’7 wing loves to talk trash and is no stranger to picking up technical fouls along the way.
Brooks got a massive four-year $86 million contract from the Rockets this summer, which makes acquiring him even less likely. Things may go south quickly in Houston, and it would not be shocking to see him on the block at the deadline. If the Lakers are in desperate need of an elite perimeter defender, they could make this offer from Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley.
This trade cannot go down until Dec. 15 because the Rockets signed Brooks this offseason. Houston spent massively to try to compete now. They owe their first-round pick to the Thunder in 2024 and do not want to give Oklahoma City a lottery pick. The Rockets’ roster is not ready to be a serious contender, which could force them to pivot at the trade deadline.
With his bloated contract and negative offensive contributions, Houston may be searching for any positive assets moving forward. Maxwell Lewis was the 40th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft and three second-round selections offer the Rockets multiple shots at drafting a rotation piece.
If the Houston Rockets are willing, should the Lakes make this trade?