While many have given up on the idea of the Los Angeles Lakers landing a standout point guard, there’s still time for the organization to complete a blockbuster trade.
The Lakers could acquire a game-changing superstar in a groundbreaking deal with the Atlanta Hawks.
“The Lakers acquiring Trae Young would be a blockbuster move that shakes up the Western Conference,” Fadeaway World’s Eddie Bitar wrote Friday.
“Young is averaging 23.1 points per game and 11.6 assists per game this season and would immediately take pressure off LeBron James as a primary playmaker, and it is no wonder why JJ Redick is a big fan of the All-Star point guard.”
“His deep shooting range and elite pick-and-roll game would pair well with Anthony Davis, creating a deadly inside-out duo.”
“However, Young’s defensive limitations could put more pressure on the Lakers’ already inconsistent defense, currently ranked 18th in the league.”
“The trade package is steep but reasonable. Austin Reaves’ breakout season (18.3 points per game, 6.1 assists per game, 36.2% three-point shooting) makes him a valuable piece, and Rui Hachimura’s size and versatility (12.2 points per game, 5.2 rebounds per game) would appeal to the Hawks.”
“Giving up multiple key role players and a future first-round pick is a heavy price, but if the Lakers are all-in on winning while LeBron and AD are in their prime, this deal is worth exploring.”
While the Hawks aren’t frightening anyone in the Eastern Conference, they’re hanging in there thanks to Young’s remarkable offensive play.
Young, a 6-foot-1 guard with one of the tightest handles in the league and the ability to locate teammates on the run, averages a double-double with the 22-22 Hawks this season.
Young may be at a disadvantage athletically, but he compensates by creating ample space on the perimeter and launching jump shots within his range.
With Young, the Lakers could build a big three that would be tough to contain nightly.
Giving up a breakout star in Reaves may give the franchise nightmares, but shoring up their backcourt may be a bigger priority.
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