The Los Angeles Lakers are struggling and flirting with missing the postseason. They are in the bottom ten in offensive rating and last in 3-pointers attempted. The Lakes desperately need some offensive punch or they could be dealing with a doomsday scenario featuring a LeBron James trade request.
Rob Pelinka and the front office should explore every avenue to improve their roster before the Feb. 8 trade deadline. Opposing teams want Austin Reaves and his four-year deal worth $53.8 million, but the Lakers have reportedly been unwilling to discuss the talented 25-year-old.
Los Angeles will only bring Reaves to the table if they are acquiring a superstar in return. With the Lakers' shooting and scoring woes, these rumored talents are the only players worth trading their 6’5 wing to acquire.
3. Trae Young
The Hawks are one of the most disappointing teams this season, and every player could be on the trade block before the deadline. The Athletic’s John Hollinger noted Young and Jalen Johnson were the team’s untouchables (subscription required), but Atlanta is not winning. Is it time for the Hawks to trade everyone, including their two-time All-Star point guard?
Ice Trae is an elite scorer, shooter, and playmaker. He would instantly solve the Lakers' offensive woes and is represented by Klutch Sports. Los Angeles has a stout defense and currently hides D’Angelo Russell in key moments. Young would be a significant upgrade and one that could get the Lakers back into the title race.
The Los Angeles Lakers would be giving up Austin Reaves for a superior talent who is the same age. It just makes sense. Trading for Trae Young would not come cheap, but Rob Pelinka should make a call and try to land the two-time All-Star before the trade deadline.