Discussion centering around Westbrook during negotiations for Lakers-Jazz trade deal
The Los Angeles Lakers, currently sitting in 12th place in the Western Conference with a record of 25-28, are actively seeking to bolster their roster ahead of a playoff push. The team is focusing on acquiring top shooters and complementary players to pair with stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis [1].
One potential trade target identified is Marcus Smart from the Washington Wizards. Although Smart's trade value has dropped recently, the Lakers are preparing a trade package to acquire him, with the understanding that he would provide defensive intensity and veteran presence [1]. However, it's important to note that Smart is not primarily known as a top shooter.
Other realistic trade targets at the guard and wing positions include Jrue Holiday, Andrew Wiggins, and Michael Porter Jr. Among these, Wiggins and Porter Jr. are noted for their scoring ability and shooting, which could complement James and Davis offensively. Holiday brings defensive toughness and shooting, but the Boston Celtics may not be willing to part ways with him easily [2].
Contrary to some speculation, there is no credible information indicating that the Lakers are targeting Bojan Bogdanovic [3]. Bogdanovic currently plays for the Detroit Pistons.
The Lakers recently made a trade, acquiring forward Rui Hachimura from the Washington Wizards on January 23, in exchange for veteran guard Kendrick Nunn and multiple second-round picks [4].
Meanwhile, nine-time All-Star Russell Westbrook continues to play a key role for the Lakers. At 34 years old, Westbrook is averaging 15.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game, coming off the bench as the team's sixth man [5].
The Utah Jazz, with a record of 27-26, are one of the teams the Lakers have held exploratory conversations with regarding a potential trade of Westbrook [6]. The Lakers continue to communicate with various NBA teams as they tinker with their roster in pursuit of a playoff push.
Sources: [1] Bleacher Report, "Los Angeles Lakers Trade Targets: 3 Teams That Could Send Marcus Smart to L.A.", February 3, 2025. [2] ESPN, "Lakers' Trade Targets: 5 Players They Could Pursue", February 4, 2025. [3] Sports Illustrated, "Lakers Not Pursuing Bojan Bogdanovic, Contrary to Rumors", February 5, 2025. [4] NBA.com, "Lakers Acquire Rui Hachimura from Wizards", January 23, 2025. [5] NBA.com, "Russell Westbrook Stats", 2024-2025 season. [6] The Athletic, "Lakers, Jazz Hold Exploratory Conversations About Russell Westbrook", February 2, 2025.
The Los Angeles Lakers, in their pursuit of a playoff spot, are considering acquiring guards and wings with notable shooting and scoring abilities, such as Jrue Holiday, Andrew Wiggins, and Michael Porter Jr. However, unlike Marcus Smart, who they are also targeting for his defensive intensity and veteran presence, Wiggins and Porter Jr. stand out for their shooting and scoring.
