The Los Angeles Lakers have long been linked to the best players on rebuilding teams. The Brooklyn Nets, New Orleans Pelicans, Washington Wizards and Toronto Raptors are all seen as viable trade partners.
Amid their current 4-8 stretch, the Lakers are desperate to get a deal done. All signs point to them improving on the margins instead of adding a superstar, although returning to old reports could hint at their future moves.
Dating back to last season (and even longer!), the Lakers have been linked to the rebuilding Utah Jazz. Lauri Markkanen, John Collins and Jordan Clarkson have all been mentioned as possible Lakers trade targets, but Collin Sexton, who was picked eighth overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2018, is likely the best fit, and is on their radar.
“Other names that have come up in talks with team and league personnel over the past few weeks include Utah’s Walker Kessler and Collin Sexton,” wrote The Athletic’s Jovan Buha on Tuesday.
The Jazz’s front office is run by Danny Ainge, who is legendary for his time playing with and managing the Boston Celtics. He does not seem eager to help the Lakers and their title quest, but for the right price, everyone on his roster is up for grabs.
The Lakers could offer D’Angelo Russell’s expiring contract as well as however many draft picks Ainge demands. It might seem like an unexpected move given the bad blood between Ainge and the Lakers, but fans have been told to expect the unexpected.
“The Lakers have a recent history of covertly navigating the trade market,” Buha continued. “It can’t be ruled out they make a trade for a player and/or with a team that no one sees coming.”
Sexton is averaging 16.3 points this season on 42% shooting from deep to go along with 3.1 assists. He is a clear upgrade on defense, and a backcourt of him and Austin Reaves could provide enough support to LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
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