With each passing game, it becomes increasingly clear that the Los Angeles Lakers must upgrade at the NBA Trade Deadline, which is less than three weeks away, if they are to compete in the Western Conference with contenders such as the Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Clippers, and possibly even the Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves.
But this is easier said than done.
As the Lakers consider a potential trade at the NBA Trade Deadline, practically every scenario would require D’Angelo Russell to be involved in some fashion. However, it may no longer be the case.
Despite trade rumors, Russell’s game has improved significantly in recent weeks. Russell has averaged 26 points and seven assists over his last seven games, shooting 53% from the field and 50% from three. Russell is performing so well that, according to a recent report, the Lakers may be reconsidering their decision to trade him.
This is the unpleasant reality for the Lakers right now. Given how erratic they’ve been this season, it may not matter in the end if they make a trade before the deadline. Even though there are players on the trade block that may strengthen the Lakers squad, I’m not sure whether any of them will be enough to help the team bridge the gap with the rest of the Western Conference contenders.
You could argue that a trade for Murray would help, but even that is not guaranteed. Because of that natural concern, you can’t help but question if this is also at the rear of the front office.
Do they use their remaining assets to make a trade that may or may not result in a big improvement to the roster? Ultimately, that is the question the Lakers will have to answer in the weeks leading up to the trade deadline. Of course, whether or not to trade Russell is also a factor in those negotiations.
