The Los Angeles Lakers could use a gifted, offensive-minded wing capable of holding his own defensively.
Acquiring an established New Orleans Pelicans would help the Lakers move forward as a franchise.
“(CJ) McCollum, 33, is in the second year of a two-year, $63.9 million deal, earning $33.3 million this season with $30.6 million slated for 2024-25,” Clutch Points’ Julian Ojeda wrote Friday.
“In 15 games this season, McCollum is averaging 20.9 points, 3.9 assists, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game while shooting 43.6% from the field and 32.5% from three-point range.”
“Known for his scoring ability, McCollum is also regarded as a solid defender, adding to his appeal for teams looking for a two-way contributor.”
“The Los Angeles Lakers and Orlando Magic are two teams identified by Siegel as potential suitors for McCollum.”
“The Lakers, with a 15-12 record, are active in trade discussions as they aim to strengthen their roster ahead of the February 6 trade deadline.”
“They have prioritized three needs: a defensive-minded center, a 3-and-D wing, and a guard with point-of-attack defensive capabilities.”
“Although McCollum stands at 6-foot-3 and is not a traditional defensive stopper, his ability to guard opposing guards effectively and his offensive versatility make him a logical fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.”
“To facilitate a trade, the Lakers would likely need to part with D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura to match McCollum’s salary. Russell is in the final year of a two-year, $18.6 million contract.”
“Hachimura, meanwhile, is on a three-year, $51 million deal, making $17 million this season and $18.2 million in its final year during the 2025-26 season.”
“A package involving these contracts would align with McCollum’s $33.3 million salary for this season.”
The Pelicans are moving backward after a successful 2023-24 campaign, but McCollum has continued to showcase his natural shot-making ability and impactful on-ball defense in New Orleans.
The Lehigh product is connecting on less than 34% of his triples this season, but he’s a proven long-range threat known for his space-creating pound dribble on the perimeter.
With the Lakers prepared to move on from Russell, McCollum may be involved in a massive trade with Los Angeles this season.
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