Many experts and NBA pundits suggest that the Los Angeles Lakers still have the chance to appear in the playoffs. But the condition remains they can not win the league with a mediocre squad they have. And throughout the whole season, many trade rumors about the Lakers have circulated in the news. But the front office has made only one change after enquiring with every player about the potential trade. The young forward Rui Hachimura played a crucial role in the win against the New York Knicks.
Hollywood\’s chance to appear in the playoffs will depend on how well they improve their roster before the trade deadline. Undoubtedly, the Lakers need more players with better quality and the ability to run both ends of the court efficiently. LA has players who could easily be traded combined with future drafts. One such player is Patrick Beverley, who brings many intangible qualities to the table but lacks an impact on the court. And to counter the problem, Dan Favale of Bleacher Report has some suggestions for the Lakers\’ front office.
Lakers\’ Patrick Beverley Could Make Way For Josh Richardson
This is not the first time the 34-year-old point guard has been criticized for his lack of presence on the court. Pat has not been the kind of player who could help a team become the title contender. And his performance this season has been proof of that. However, the Lakers could use him and their second-draft picks to lure Josh Richardson to the team. Dan Fvale suggests a deal that would include Richardson and second-round picks in exchange for Patrick. The reporter believes that Josh would be a great companion to LeBron James and Hachimura in LA\’s offense. The small forward is currently averaging 11.2 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists every game.
In the meantime, San Antonio Spurs have not been doing well this year and lie behind the Lakers in the 14th position. If the Spurs get into full rebuilding mode, then LA could steal another gen Jakob Poeltl who is also linked with Hollywood. According to Eric Pincus, the Lakers are among the many teams showing interest in the center. The Austrian big man has collected interest from many big names in the league, such as LA Clippers, Boston Celtics, and Warriors. If the Lakers manage to land the big man, he would be a great backup for injury-prone Anthony Davis.
Meanwhile, Jakob is averaging 11.8 assists,9.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists every game. However, the Spurs will not easily let go of their center, as they have an ask for a first-round pick and a young player in exchange. But the ask for the first-round pick might be a deal breaker for the Lakers as they want to preserve their draft picks. However, everything will uncover in just a few days, as LA has only one week to decide.