The Los Angeles Lakers are starting to find their groove once again, as they have now won four of their last five games. The offense is beginning to click, and the rhythm of the role players is starting to show as well. For LeBron James, it must be encouraging to see a contending team coming together just as he wanted.
“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Rich Paul told ESPN. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.”
With the trade deadline approaching, the Lakers could become even more of a contender, and Keon Ellis is a name to watch.
“League and team sources say the Kings continue to draw serious interest in veteran guard Keon Ellis, with approximately 10 teams in pursuit of the 26-year-old. A deal is almost certain to go down before the Feb. 5 deadline, if not much sooner. The strangest part of it all? Despite Ellis’ three-and-D skillset being so coveted, Kings coach Doug Christie opted against playing Ellis in the past two games. The Kings are seeking a late first-round pick in the deal,” The Athletic’s Sam Amick said.
The Lakers have also emerged as a suitor for New Orleans Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado.
“The Knicks, Lakers, Rockets, and Spurs are among the teams to register trade interest with the Pelicans on Jose Alvarado. Alvarado’s price tag appears to be multiple 2nd-round picks as he holds a $4.5 million player option for next season,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery posted.
The Lakers need more defense on the roster, and a trade for Alvarado is intriguing. This move would likely suggest that Gabe Vincent could be on his way out of Los Angeles. The Lakers already have Marcus Smart as their primary defensive guard.
Los Angeles is trying to improve its team around the big three of Austin Reaves, Luka Dončić, and James. Alvarado would certainly make them better defensively, but beyond that, it is difficult to see what else he would bring to the table.