11 Former Lakers that Rob Pelinka could try to trade for
By Tyler Watts
4. Jordan Clarkson
The Lakers drafted Clarkson in the second round in 2014, and he quickly worked his way into the rotation. The 6’3 guard is a bucket and is an annual Sixth Man of the Year candidate. He won the award in 2021 and averaged over 20 points per game last season as a starter for the rebuilding Jazz.
Clarkson’s salary goes down to $14.1 million next season. Several teams will be interested, but will Utah’s recent surge make them buyers? They have vaulted over .500 after a rough start and currently hold a spot in the Play-In Tournament. Jazz president Danny Ainge is not afraid to be aggressive, but it may be more valuable long-term to get some postseason experience over another lottery pick.
The Jazz are also looking to open up minutes in the backcourt for Keyonte George. The easiest way is trading Jordan Clarkson to a contender searching for an offensive boost.
Verdict: The Lakers are 22nd in offensive rating and 18th in points per game. They desperately need some scoring punch off their bench, and Jordan Clarkson has averaged over 21 points per 36 minutes for seven straight years. He is not the perfect fit, but the 31-year-old is under contract for two more years at a reasonable salary and fills a need in Los Angeles.