After losing four games in a row, it's clear the Los Angeles Lakers need a third dynamic scorer next to superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis. While small forward Kyle Kuzma had a great game on Christmas Day against the Los Angeles Clippers by scoring 25 points, LA general manager Rob Pelinka is still interested in upgrading his roster.
However, according to Joe Vardon of The Athletic, trade activity from the Lakers likely won’t come until closer to the February trade deadline:
The Lakers need a legitimate third scorer, ball-handling help and outside shooting. Kuzma is 24, is under contract for $3.6 million next season and, as he showed on Christmas, has a potentially huge upside. He is the young player teams would want if the Lakers pursue a major upgrade come February.
The Lakers’ other chief potential trade chip is Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who makes $8.1 million this season with a player option for $8.5 million next year. But he would have to approve a trade. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka is interested in upgrading his team, but activity likely won’t come until closer to the deadline. Caldwell-Pope, by the way, scored 13 points on 5-of-8 shooting. The Lakers got little from Danny Green (2 of 8) and Avery Bradley (1 of 5).
The Lakers are still in first place in the Western Conference despite their current four-game losing streak. The Purple and Gold are 24-7 on the season.
Kuzma and Danny Green are believed to be the best trade chips on LA's roster. It will be interesting to see if Pelinka decides to make a move or stands pat.
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