As the February 6 NBA trade deadline approaches, Lakers fans have heightened expectations, given the strong performances from LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Many believe the Lakers are on the brink of becoming serious championship contenders with just a few roster adjustments.
Despite sitting in fifth place in the Western Conference, the Lakers have struggled to separate themselves from the play-in race. With Davis out due to injury, the team must add depth and talent at the trade deadline. To do this, the Lakers are likely to part ways with several players, including:
1. Gabe Vincent
After a tough 2023-24 season, Gabe Vincent has shown improvement but remains a liability on offense. While he offers solid defense, his shooting struggles, particularly from three-point range (32%), continue to be a problem for the Lakers. Averaging just 4.9 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game on poor shooting efficiency, Vincent isn’t delivering enough to justify his spot.
With an $11 million salary for the next two years, the Lakers could move on from him by pairing his contract with draft picks to upgrade the roster.
2. Rui Hachimura
Rui Hachimura’s versatility as a 3-and-D forward remains valuable to the Lakers. While not a standout in any single area, his size and ability to shoot make him a solid contributor on both ends of the floor. Hachimura’s $17 million salary is a key factor for salary-matching in trade scenarios. If the Lakers aim for a high-salaried player, like De’Aaron Fox or Zach LaVine, Hachimura could be included in a trade package due to his valuable skill set.
3. Jonas Valanciunas
Jonas Valanciunas, who signed a three-year, $30 million deal with the Wizards, has long been a rumored trade target for the Lakers. Despite not being the perfect fit alongside Anthony Davis, his strong post presence and rebounding abilities would boost the Lakers’ frontcourt. Valanciunas could likely be acquired with second-round picks and players like Gabe Vincent or Jarred Vanderbilt, making him a realistic option for the Lakers as they look to improve their roster ahead of the playoffs.
4. Isaiah Thomas
Isaiah Thomas is pursuing another NBA comeback, recently signing a G League contract with the Utah Jazz. After a brief stint with the Phoenix Suns last season, Thomas is working to prove he still has the skills needed for an NBA role. The Jazz, who are currently not playoff-bound, are giving him an opportunity to show his potential. Thomas’ performance in the G League could determine whether he gets another chance in the NBA, including a potential return to the Lakers.
5. De’Aaron Fox
De’Aaron Fox, the Sacramento Kings’ star point guard, is a trade target for the Lakers as the February 6 NBA trade deadline approaches. The Kings are open to trade offers, and Fox is said to prefer a move to the San Antonio Spurs. However, his agent is still willing to entertain calls from other teams. The Lakers could pursue Fox due to his manageable salary compared to other stars, but a third team may need to be involved to make the financials work. A potential trade could include players like Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and draft picks.
