The Los Angeles Lakers have several expiring contracts to trade if Rob Pelinka wants to upgrade their roster, and getting Herb Jones from the Pelicans could make it another masterful deadline. Fans will remember the Lakers stunningly acquired Luka Doncic at the 2025 trade deadline and dumped Russell Westbrook in 2023 as a pair of trades helped propel Los Angeles to the conference finals. The Lakers' needs are clear, and the ideal move is waiting.
Fans have seen the Lakers struggle with speed, athleticism, and quickness this season. They desperately need a stout perimeter defender to stop the downhill attacks.