The Los Angeles Lakers have made several additions to their roster in the early stages of free agency. They have signed Jake LaRavia and former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton, giving both two-year deals.
Los Angeles is not done making moves as they have now shifted their attention to the trade market. The Lakers are reportedly looking to target a point of attack wing defender.
NBA writer Jake Weinbach shared a prediction to land a former Defensive Player of the Year.
"A trade idea between the Lakers and Wizards," Jake Weinbach wrote Tuesday. "• Lakers acquire Marcus Smart • Wizards receive Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, 2032 second-round pick, cash considerations"
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Smart has battled injuries over the past two seasons as he has been limited to just 54 games in that span. The 2021-22 Defensive Player of the Year remains among the league's best wing defenders when he is healthy.
He would fill a major hole for the Lakers, who have a clear need for defensive help on the perimeter. While Los Angeles has a strong offensive backcourt of Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, they need more defensive help in their lineup -- as neither of the two players, LeBron James, Rui Hachimura and Ayton are known for their defensive abilities.
Meanwhile, Washington could be motivated to make a deal to accommodate Smart and send him to a contender. Although they likely won't have much interest in Vincent or Kleber, both are on expiring contracts and could potentially be re-routed, if they are able to build their value.
Furthermore, the Wizards are unlikely to receive a first-round pick for the three-time All-Defensive guard. Smart has been linked to a potential buyout so the franchise could be motivated to at least receive something in return for him.
More NBA: Lakers expected to target defensive wings to pair with Luka Dončić, LeBron James