While the Los Angeles Lakers should refrain from making risky trade-market decisions, they may take a chance anyway.
Surprisingly, the Lakers could acquire LaVar Ball’s eldest son before the Feb. 6 trade deadline.
“Lonzo Ball could be a key trade target for the LA Lakers. With injuries piling up, especially among key players, going after Ball would be a bold move,” The Wrightway Sports Network’s Arkay wrote last Friday.
“But his recent improvement and potential fit with the team make him worth considering.”
“In December, the Lakers traded D’Angelo Russell for Dorian Finney-Smith, which left them thin at the guard position.”
“Outside of Austin Reaves and LeBron James, the team lacks consistent playmakers. Gabe Vincent and Shake Milton have been inconsistent and haven’t provided the spark the Lakers need from their bench guards.”
“The Lakers also struggle with point-of-attack defense. Max Christie is their only real option in that role, but his inexperience can be a liability during crucial moments. The team doesn’t have a reliable backup for such situations.”
“Ball’s skills would be a perfect match for the Lakers. At 6-foot-6, he’s a strong, smart player who can guard multiple positions and easily adapt to defensive schemes like JJ Redick’s switching system.”
“He’s also a better ball-handler, playmaker, and shooter than many other options available.”
“His previous chemistry with LeBron James in 2018-19 showed great potential. Back then, the Lakers were a top-four seed until injuries derailed their season.”
“Ball’s ability to space the floor and run the offense would ease the workload on LeBron and Reaves, giving the team a more balanced lineup.”
“Financially, Ball’s $21.3 million expiring contract is a low-risk option. The Lakers could test his long-term fit without a big commitment.”
“Trading players like Rui Hachimura and Jalen Hood-Schifino for Ball would also allow the Lakers to keep their valuable first-round picks for the future.”
Since entering the league in 2017, Ball has dealt with significant injuries detrimental to his development.
The former Los Angeles Lakers point guard missed two full seasons with the Chicago Bulls due to a nagging left knee setback.
Ball is back in action this season but hasn’t been overly productive with the 19-25 Zach-Lavine-led Bulls.
The stout defender and talented distributor averages 6.5 points and 3.7 assists per contest on subpar shooting splits.
With Ball arguably the most high-risk asset available, the Lakers should focus on other contributors this season.
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