5 Unpopular trades the Lakers should explore this summer
By Tyler Watts
4. Lakers ship out multiple role players for 3rd star
This strategy divides Lakers fans after the Russell Westbrook debacle. Los Angeles gave up three role players, including Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Kyle Kuzma, and a first-round pick to get the future Hall of Famer at LeBron’s request. They dreamed of their new Big 3 lifting them to another championship, but the Lakers were bounced in the first round and did not make the playoffs in the two seasons Westbrook finished with the franchise.
LA added talent but did not factor in fit. Westbrook needs the ball in his hands to be at his best, but so does King James. LeBron is the superior talent, which left Westbrook trying to figure out how to operate without it. His lack of shooting and defense plagued the Lakers and set the franchise back.
Rob Pelinka and the front office should only trade for a third star if he fits next to James and Anthony Davis. They need a shooter capable of handling the ball and defending on the perimeter. The Lakers' best lineups feature AD at the five and LeBron at the four at this stage of their careers. Can Los Angeles find a point guard or wing that enhances their title odds?
No matter how the fan base feels, this is likely the Lakers shot at title contention. Finding another difference-maker who can limit the burden on their current stars is a must unless the franchise decides to go in the other direction.