The Lakers are quickly finding out that relying on a new coaching scheme and a continuously aging core of stars isn’t the most sustainable way to add to the banners hanging at the Crypto.com Arena.
The lack of consistent contributors outside of LeBron James and Anthony Davis is one of JJ Redick’s biggest concerns with the Lakers roster. LeBron can no longer play extended minutes as he approaches his forties, It’s also becoming increasingly clear with the record the Purple and Gold have that Rob Pelinka hasn’t done enough to bring the best talents to Tinseltown.
The trade market is the quickest and most effective way for a contender like LA to find the talent it needs. Selling teams would profit from the Lakers’ desperation to leech out as much as they could, but the Lakers are more than willing to spend to win one more chip with Bron.
One former player who contributed to the team’s 2020 title run is tipped to return to Tinseltown.
Lakers target Kuzma as a trade target to strengthen their squad
HoopsHype’s Michael Sotto broke the news that the Purple and Gold are looking into the situation surrounding their former pick, per Athlon Sports’ Nick Wright:
“In Washington, forward Kyle Kuzma is viewed as one of the team leaders who keeps the Wizards competitive while helping to build the development of the other young players around him as a forward who can score and defend… Teams who’ve kept tabs on Kuzma include the [Milwaukee] Bucks, [Golden State] Warriors, Lakers, [Miami] Heat, and [Cleveland] Cavaliers, HoopsHype has learned.”
Kuzma is having a down year after enjoying two productive seasons as a top player in a terrible team. He’s averaging 15.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists through 12 starts. He will get fewer touches if he does return to the City of Angels, but he’ll be playing for a contender as a key contributor either on the starting lineup or on the bench.
The Lakers badly need rotation options who can instantly make an impact. While Rui Hachimura and Dalton Knecht have been playing well for Redick’s squad, Kuzma has the advantage of understanding the expectations of playing for a storied franchise. Should Pelinka make a move for him, his return to the bright lights of Hollywood should be seamless.
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