The Los Angeles Lakers have seen an overall boost in productivity since their shocking acquisition of ex-Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Dončić prior to the Feb. 6 trade deadline, as the group has compiled a 43-27 record and gained possession of the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference.
Though Dončić, LeBron James and budding star Austin Reaves have done plenty to help the storied franchise contend in a loaded conference, their general manager Rob Pelinka could view this summer as a perfect opportunity to add a solid scoring presence and astounding athlete to help the trio raise yet another Larry O’Brien trophy at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season.
To possibly give the franchise a better chance at hanging an 18th championship banner, Pelinka and his front office could contact the Indiana Pacers to inquire about a potential trade for forward Obi Toppin in exchange for a package centered around defensive forward Jarred Vanderbilt and draft compensation.
At 27 years old, the ex-New York Knicks draft pick and sensational leaper has put together a great 2024-25 campaign for Indiana, as he’s averaged 10.3 points and 4.1 rebounds on a 61.6% effective field goal percentage in 67 appearances this season.
In what would be a clear defense-offense swap, Los Angeles would ship Vanderbilt away to the Pacers to bring in an exciting transition force that could pair well with the team’s all-time great passing duo of Dončić and James.
Toppin is also an improved defender himself, evidenced by a current 114 defensive rating per 100 possessions and a figure of 0.6 steals, which ties his career-best mark from last season.
The Pacers may not necessarily be in the market to give up a fairly young player who fits their game-plan, but Vanderbilt’s defensive potential and the idea of receiving a future prospect may be enough to get a dialogue started.
On the other hand, an explosive force like Toppin being provided to a star-studded team that loves to trot out long and strong wings could prove to be a monumental addition.
For a group with lofty title aspirations for next season and beyond after their unbelievable mid-season transaction, Toppin might prove to be a necessary ingredient to a hopeful juggernaut squad in the West.
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