The Los Angeles Lakers are not rich in the assets they bring to the table for trade negotiations. As such, any deal involving Rob Pelinka and company will require a calculated strike. That is hard to execute at this stage of the trade window being open for the majority of players around the league.
This was something Jake Fischer discussed during his recent appearance on a Bleacher Report livestream. Despite it being well known that Los Angeles is searching for an upgrade in the 3-and-D market, prices are still too high for them to make their move.
Fischer said, "They're going to be held up by factors like the [New Orleans] Pelicans, at least, presenting that they want a major price point for either Herb Jones or Trey Murphy for this juncture."
This messaging falls in line with some of the other reports that have circulated about the 3-and-D market. The Lakers know they need to improve their shooting and defense as soon as possible. For those in Los Angeles getting angsty, there is no immediate escape of those feelings.
Lakers will need patience to find their perfect trade target
Lakers beat writer Dan Woike had been skeptical recently about the Lakers having enough to pursue Jones. This is also a great time to remind everyone defensive star can't be traded until Jan. 14 anyways. If Herb is out of range, it should immediately rule out Murphy as well.
Wiggins was another name mentioned by Fischer. The Lakers have been linked to the Miami Heat forward since the offseason. There has yet to be any indicator that Pat Riley is willing to budge for anything other than a lopsided trade.
Keon Ellis is the most readily available 3-and-D guy on the trade market. The Sacramento Kings guard would be a strong addition under any circumstances. However, the limitations of his size make it hard to sell him as the lone player who can make up the entire difference for the Lakers.
The best everyone can do at the moment is wait.
There is plenty of time for the situation to greatly evolve between now and the trade deadline in February. Prices could come down. New players may become available. The urgency to make a knee-jerk move should not be there just yet.
A flawed Lakers team has still managed to secure an 18-7 record in the Western Conference. They have given the front office the justification needed to build on the foundation. Patience is what matters most from here.