The Lakers rejoiced when Kyrie Irving asked the Brooklyn Nets for a trade. The team also prepared an offer to bring in Irving and reunite him with his former teammate, LeBron James. But just when the fans prepared to celebrate, Chris Haynes of Bleacher reports claimed the Nets had agreed to send off Irving to Dallas Mavericks.
Apparently, the Lakers were unwilling to ship off their top young prospects for the trade. Moreover, the purple and gold offered only a two-year extension deal worth $78.6 million in counter to Kyrie’s ask of a four-year contract worth around $200 million. Hence, the deal fell apart, and Irving had to settle with the Mavericks. Though no confirmation has come out from either of the parties, the deal looks sealed.
Lakers Left With Limited Options
Now that the Kyrie Irving deal has fallen apart, the Lakers must look for other options before the trade deadline ends on February 9. The club already made a move when they inducted Rui Hachimura at the start of the trade window. Still, the Lakers would hope for at least one addition before the window closes. But what are the options left for the franchise?
1. Mike Conley, Malik Beasley, And Jarred Vanderbilt
A Yahoo sports reporter speculated about the possibility of a trade between the Lakers and Utah Jazz. The purple and gold could send Russell Westbrook in exchange for Mike Conley, Malik Beasley, and Jarred Vanderbilt. While Conley is averaging 10.7 points, his three-point average is up to 36.4%. Moreover, Beasley also recorded a three-point average of 35.8 % this season. Hence, the duo could bring a lot to the table for the Lakers.
2. Fred VanVleet
Fred VanVleet of the Toronto Raptors is also an option for the Lakers. This season, Fred’s averaging 19.8 points per game. Moreover, Fred is someone who can control the game from both ends of the court. Currently, he has an opt-out option in the contract. However, if the purple and gold failed to make a trade, Fred might sign an extension deal with the Raptors.
3. Terry Rozier
Charlotte Hornets point guard Terry Rozier is yet another good option for the Lakers. Terry’s average this season is 21.7 points per game. Even though his three-point shooting average is at a record low, Terry can play a supporter’s role to the James-Davis duo at the front end.
4. Eric Gordon
Lastly, Houston Rockets point guard Eric Gordon could be an excellent deep-end option for the Lakers. Eric’s three-point average this season is 36.9%. Moreover, a journalist reported that purple and gold have their eyes set on the point guard. Hence, we might see negotiations happening very soon.
Overall, the ball is in the Lakers’ court for now. If at all they are willing to make a trade. Time and again, the front office has claimed they can turn the season around if all the top guys are back in total health. However, that certainly does not seem to be the case. Hence, trade is inevitable for the purple and gold if they are serious about the playoffs this season.
