Until the Feb. 5 trade deadline passes, crafty Los Angeles Lakers trade concepts will continue to appear.
On Tuesday, Sports Illustrated's Ryan Shea created a Dalton Knecht-centered trade that would land the franchise their dream forward.
"The Los Angeles Lakers trade could significantly boost their championship odds by acquiring Herb Jones to upgrade their defense, particularly on a team led by LeBron James and Luka Doncic," Shea stated.
“Jones’ elite two-way ability allows him to guard multiple positions at a high level, disrupt opposing offenses with smart rotations and steals, and cover the defensive gaps that often emerge in star-driven lineups.”
“By taking on the toughest perimeter assignments, Jones would free LeBron and Luka to focus on playmaking and scoring, while elevating the team’s overall defensive cohesion. His presence would transform the Lakers into a more complete two-way unit, improving their chances of making a deep playoff run and contending for a championship.”
Shea’s trade idea would send Knecht and Jerrod Vanderbilt to the New Orleans Pelicans for Jones.
Jones is at the top of the Lakers’ list of trade targets. While he may not be the hottest commodity on the trade market, he’s the type of wing the Lakers need to take the next step on both ends of the floor.
From making wise decisions while playing off the ball to using his physical tools and non-stop activity to impose his will defensively, Jones proves his worth every time he steps on the hardwood.
Unfortunately for the Lakers, the Pelicans don’t appear interested in surrendering the Alabama product anytime soon, making it unlikely for the Lakers to land him.
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