CONFIRMED – The Lakers are reportedly set to trade two stars who are free agents on trade deadline day. [Full story link in comment]
As the NBA trade deadline approaches in a few hours (it’s at noon PT), the Los Angeles Lakers are exploring different avenues to upgrade the roster. The team has been linked with multiple names, but no trades have gone down just yet.
According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Lakers are looking at different trades, including point guard Gabe Vincent and center Christian Wood. Both players signed with Los Angeles over the summer, and it’s been an underwhelming tenure for them with the purple and gold.
“The Lakers continue to explore opportunities involving Gabe Vincent and Christian Wood on the trade market. Rui Hachimura is a player the Lakers would prefer to hold onto, yet they have also explored what a return would look like with him in a potential deal around the league.”
Per Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints
To Vincent’s credit, he has been hurt. He has only been able to play in a few games, so we haven’t been able to truly judge his performance.
But the Lakers likely view him as a negative asset at this time. They brought him in to help with their defense and three-point shooting, but his lack of availability has been concerning.
He is scheduled to possibly return at the beginning of March, but the team needs immediate help. If Vincent remains on the roster, he could be a nice addition for the stretch run, however,
As for Wood, he has shown some flashes throughout the season. But his inconsistency has also played a factor in the struggles.
Wood was signed to help alleviate minutes for Anthony Davis, but that hasn’t happened. He is having his worst season in years, making him a potential candidate to be moved.
The front office has some major work to do in a short amount of time to upgrade the roster. However, opposing teams are playing hardball with talent, so the Lakers could end up staying pat this time around.
