The Los Angeles Lakers found themselves in deep trouble last year as they managed to finish on the 11th seed. The Lakers had a terrible 33-49 record and could not even make it to the postseason. And seems like the troubles continued for the Lakers. They found themselves limited by the salary cap, unable to make any crucial changes in the roster. The biggest trouble that the Lakers have faced this offseason has been the Russell Westbrook trade. The LA front office has tried desperately to get rid of their $97.1m liability. But no teams have been interested in housing the Lakers point guard. The team recently acquired Westbrook nemesis Patrick Beverly and is now reportedly eyeing a potential Donovan Mitchell trade.
Despite not forcing a trade last month, Mitchell\’s future with the Utah Jazz remains in great uncertainty. The Jazz center Rudy Govert teased a possible rebuilding mission for the team early in the offseason. The speculations about Donovan\’s exit became more heated when Ainge questioned the guard\’s ability to be the face of the franchise. Recently, NBA Insider Mark Stein suggested that the New York Knicks are leading the trade discussions for Mitchell. However, it remains to be seen if the Lakers will get involved in the trade in an attempt to improve their roster.
Stein stated that if the Knicks or any other team unexpectedly acquires Donovan Mitchell, there is a decent chance of the Lakers getting involved in the deal. The Lakers have a chance of making the deal happen. Jazz CEO Danny Ainge would be eyeing to possess 2027, and 2029 top-shelf draft picks. Mark added, \”Russell Westbrook\’s $47m expiring contract and those picks could be the Lakers\’ entree to a potential three-team swap, depending on the players that would land in Los Angeles.\”
Can Mitchell\’s Acquisition Help Lakers Solve The Westbrook Problem?
The acquisition of Donovan Mitchell could support the Lakers greatly, who have been struggling with the Westbrook problem. The team acquired Russell Westbrook last season to create a Big three at the Lakers. However, the nine-time All-Star turned out to be a liability despite playing 78 games and averaging above 18.
The veteran point guard failed to fit in on the floor with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. However, with Beverley and Mitchell on the side, the Lakers would have a greater chance of doing better than bidding their money on a struggling Westbrook. Meanwhile, amid all the drama, Westbrook might actually get to play for the Lakers under new head coach Darvin Ham, who is looking for a new role for him.