The Los Angeles Lakers, to nobody’s true surprise, are close to exiting the playoffs in the first round at the hands of the championship-favorites Denver Nuggets. The Lakers were supposed to put up a fight against the Nuggets but instead extended a losing streak to their rivals, which reached 12 games until the team managed a 119-108 win on Saturday night. Despite LeBron James and Anthony Davis having a positive postseason in terms of their individual performances, the Lakers failed and D’Angelo Russell is one player who is to blame.
While the blame needs to be spread to most individuals on the team, D’Angelo Russell can be made the most expendable because he is the most valuable trade asset. The point guard averaged 14.3 points per game on 35.3% from three in the playoffs, well below his average of 18.0 points per game on 41.5%. At 28 years old with a player option worth $18,692,307 this summer, D’Angelo Russell could be used in one of these five sign-and-trade details.
A Blockbuster Deal For Trae Young
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Trae Young is the best player in the NBA who is on the trading block this summer and the Lakers’ best chance to create a Big Three comes with acquiring the point guard.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Trae Young
Atlanta Hawks Receive: D’Angelo Russell (Sign and Trade), Austin Reaves, Gabe Vincent, 2028 First-Round Pick Swap, 2029 First-Round Pick
Trae Young, widely regarded as one of the premier point guards in the NBA, brings a dynamic scoring ability and playmaking prowess that perfectly complements the talents of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. His exceptional court vision and deep shooting range make him an ideal fit within the Lakers’ offensive scheme, which struggled to find consistency, ranking 15th in offensive rating (115.9).
With Young at the helm, the Lakers’ offense gains a new dimension, capable of exploiting defensive mismatches and generating high-quality scoring opportunities. Moreover, Young’s youth and potential for growth position him as a long-term cornerstone for the franchise, offering a seamless transition once LeBron James eventually retires. At only 25 years old, Young is a budding star and will only improve in terms of his overall impact. This season, he averaged 25.7 points, 10.8 assists, and 1.3 steals per game on 37.3% from three.
By assembling a formidable Big Three consisting of James, Davis, and Young, the Lakers not only bolster their championship aspirations in the short term but also lay a strong foundation for sustained success in the years to come. James will be 40 next season and the Lakers need to carefully consider their future even if The King re-signs or opts into his player option. Young can become the new face of the Lakers for the foreseeable future, regardless.
An Excellent Backup Option For A Big Three
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Dejounte Murray is another guard who is likely available this summer because he doesn’t command the salary of a number-one option but can immediately improve a contender.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Dejounte Murray
Atlanta Hawks Receive: D’Angelo Russell (Sign and Trade), Jarred Vanderbilt, 2029 First-Round Pick
There is a second trade situation involving Dejounte Murray as an alternative option for the Los Angeles Lakers. Murray, known for his defensive prowess and versatile skill set, could serve as an excellent complement to LeBron James and Anthony Davis, providing stability and playmaking ability in the backcourt. While not as flashy as acquiring Trae Young, Murray’s defensive tenacity and ability to facilitate offense could address some of the Lakers’ needs, particularly on the defensive end, where they ranked lower than desired.
The Lakers had problems across the board, but their defense was one of them (23rd in OPPG, 117.4). Murray led the NBA in steals in 2021-22 (2.0) and made the All-Defensive Team in 2017-18. This season, he added 22.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, 6.4 assists, and 1.4 steals per game in 78 starts for the Hawks. He can easily be part of a new starting lineup with the Lakers alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
His presence would not only strengthen the team’s rotation but also provide insurance against potential injuries or fatigue among key players. Overall, adding Murray to the Lakers’ roster could enhance their versatility and depth, making them a more formidable contender in the Western Conference because the player is only 27 years old and has at least five more years of his prime left.
Related: D’Angelo Russell On Darvin Ham Telling Him He Believes In Him: “I Don’t Need That”
Adding Athleticism And Scoring With Zach LaVine
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A backup trade situation for the Lakers might also be beneficial to them because it nets them a former All-Star with plenty to prove.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Zach LaVine
Chicago Bulls Receive: D’Angelo Russell (Sign and Trade), Gabe Vincent, 2029 First-Round Pick
In case they can’t acquire Young or Murray, the Lakers set their sights on acquiring the dynamic 298-year-old former All-Star, Zach LaVine. The move positions the Lakers to bolster their backcourt with LaVine’s explosive scoring and perimeter shooting. LaVine’s athleticism and ability to create his own shot bring a valuable dimension to the Lakers’ offense, enhancing their versatility.
The shooting guard had a down year, averaging 19.5 points and 5.2 rebounds per game on 34.9% from three this season so the spacing provided by LaVine’s shooting also opens up the floor, allowing James and Davis more room to operate. Moreover, LaVine’s scoring ability in transition aligns with the Lakers’ fast-paced style of play as he becomes the go-to perimeter scorer.
While parting ways with D’Angelo Russell, promising guard Gabe Vincent, and a 2029 first-round pick involves relinquishing young talent and future assets, the potential addition of LaVine offers the Lakers a proven and immediate impact player. LaVine still has enough time and energy to regain his All-Star form, and perhaps being a third option as a floor-spacer and scorer would greatly boost his productivity again.
A Chance To Create A Veteran Big Three
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The Chicago Bulls can offer an alternative trade situation that involves 34-year-old DeMar DeRozan who has a few years left in the tank.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: DeMar DeRozan
Chicago Bulls Receive: D’Angelo Russell (Sign and Trade), Gabe Vincent, 2029 First-Round Pick
The possibility of acquiring a seasoned scorer like DeMar DeRozan could significantly bolster the Lakers’ offensive firepower. DeRozan’s adept mid-range game and ability to create his own shot would seamlessly complement the Lakers’ roster, especially when paired with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The six-time All-Star averaged 24.0 points and 5.3 assists per game on 48.0% from the field this season.
DeRozan’s scoring versatility, particularly his proficiency in mid-range and isolation situations, aligns seamlessly with LeBron James’s playmaking finesse and Anthony Davis’s inside-out scoring capabilities. His ability to stretch the floor from deep (33.3% 3-PT FG this season) isn’t great, but the Lakers can’t be too picky if they want to build a Big Three. DeRozan’s proven track record of being a clutch performer further solidifies the Lakers’ late-game options.
The Lakers may see DeRozan’s proven veteran presence as a more immediate and impactful contributor to their championship aspirations. The inclusion of a future first-round pick sweetens the deal for the Bulls, who can rebuild with D’Angelo Russell. Getting younger with this deal and also giving the Lakers the third option they need could be an excellent win-win situation this summer.
Improved Defense With Jerami Grant
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Jerami Grant is a veteran on a rebuilding team, and he fits into the Purple and Gold system as a new third option.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Jerami Grant
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: D’Angelo Russell (Sign and Trade), Gabe Vincent, 2029 First-Round Pick
In this final trade scenario with the Portland Trail Blazers, the Lakers target the versatile forward Jerami Grant, a player whose name has been circulating in trade rumors amidst a rebuilding phase for the Blazers. Grant’s fit within the Purple and Gold system is underscored by his defensive tenacity, athleticism, and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor.
Grant is averaging 21.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, 0.8 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game for a Portland Trail Blazers team that is devoid of any real star power right now. Jerami Grant’s integration into the Lakers’ lineup alongside LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Austin Reaves could redefine their team dynamics. Grant shines through as a spot-up shooter (40.2% 3-PT FG this season), bringing a reliable perimeter threat that complements the playmaking prowess of LeBron James.
Defensively, Grant’s tenacity and ability to guard multiple positions enhance the Lakers’ defensive rotations and rim protection, forming a formidable barrier alongside Anthony Davis. His athleticism and speed make him a valuable asset in fast-break scenarios, and the 30-year-old would be a perfect new starter for the team.
Related: D’Angelo Russell Was On His Phone During Team Huddle In Game 3 Loss To Denver Nuggets
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