The ongoing speculation about the Los Angeles Lakers’ next trade remains a hot topic, but there are certain players they should steer clear of.
The Lakers are expected to be active leading up to the NBA trade deadline on February 6, exploring ways to improve their roster for a stronger playoff push. While the team has been linked to various stars, their willingness to make a deal remains uncertain.
Franchise cornerstones LeBron James and Anthony Davis are pushing for moves to ease their workload and solidify the team as a contender. However, general manager Rob Pelinka remains hesitant about giving up future assets, especially if the team needs more than one move to reach championship contention.
The Lakers must strike a balance—pursuing trades that genuinely improve the team while avoiding deals that could be detrimental. Here are some players they should pass on.
Brandon Ingram
A potential trade scenario could see the Lakers acquiring Brandon Ingram, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, and Daniel Theis in exchange for Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and a 2025 second-round pick.
While Ingram is averaging 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists this season and could provide much-needed offensive firepower, trading for him would come at a cost. The Lakers would lose Vanderbilt and Vincent’s defensive contributions, and they’d also face the challenge of extending Ingram’s contract in the offseason. Given his expected price tag, this deal might not be worth the risk.
Kyle Kuzma
A trade proposal involving Kuzma would see the Lakers sending Hachimura, Vanderbilt, and two second-round picks to the Washington Wizards.
Though Kuzma’s return to Los Angeles might seem like a feel-good story, it’s not a necessary move, especially after the Lakers acquired Dorian Finney-Smith. Kuzma’s current struggles and the potential for him to demand a bigger role could disrupt team chemistry. The Lakers should focus on other areas of need instead.
Lonzo Ball
A possible deal could bring Lonzo Ball and Torrey Craig to the Lakers in exchange for Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and Christian Wood.
While Ball’s defensive and playmaking abilities would be valuable, the Lakers would be giving up key rotation players. Moreover, with Ball still recovering from long-term injuries, acquiring him at his current contract value wouldn’t be a wise investment. If they’re interested in Ball, they could wait and sign him in free agency at a lower cost.
Cam Johnson
In a proposed trade, the Lakers would send Hachimura, Vanderbilt, and a 2029 second-round pick to the Brooklyn Nets for Cam Johnson.
Johnson’s shooting ability makes him an attractive target, as he’s averaging 19.4 points while shooting 41.9% from three. However, given his high trade value, the Lakers would likely need to offer a first-round pick to acquire him—an asset they should preserve for more pressing needs.
Jakob Poeltl
A potential deal with the Raptors would send Hachimura, Hood-Schifino, and a 2029 protected first-round pick to Toronto for Poeltl.
While Poeltl’s defensive skills and rebounding would be beneficial, his $20 million salary makes this trade an expensive move for a player who might not fit seamlessly alongside Davis. If the Lakers are serious about adding a center, they might be better off pursuing a more cost-effective option like Walker Kessler.
In summary, while the Lakers should be aggressive in making improvements, these particular trades could cause more harm than good.
