The Los Angeles Lakers are actively discussing a trade with the Atlanta Hawks for Serbian guard Bogdan Bogdanović, according to ClutchPoints’ Anthony Irwin.
“Since trading D’Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets for Dorian Finney-Smith, the Los Angeles Lakers have struggled to score anywhere near the rate they were with Russell on the roster. With the NBA trade deadline looming, Rob Pelinka is looking to address that issue, and, according to sources with knowledge of the situation speaking on the condition of anonymity, the Lakers and Atlanta Hawks are in talks that would send trade target Bogdan Bogdanović to Los Angeles,” Irwin reported.
As part of the discussions, Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and another salary filler are believed to be included in the trade package, Irwin added. The deal could potentially expand into a larger trade.
Jake Fischer of “The Stein Line” reported on January 30 that momentum is building toward a Bogdanović trade, with rising confidence that Atlanta could have multiple options to move him.It appears the Lakers are one of those serious contenders.
Bogdan Bogdanović’s Struggles This Season
Bogdanović has missed the Hawks’ last three games due to personal reasons and is currently experiencing the worst season of his career.
In 24 games off the bench, as Atlanta prioritizes younger wings Dyson Daniels and No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher, Bogdanović’s playing time has dropped significantly—from 30.4 minutes last season to just 24.9 minutes.
As a result, his production has dipped to 10.0 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, with shooting percentages of 37.1% overall and 31% from three-point range—a stark contrast from his 42.8% and 37.4% shooting last season.
Bogdanović is currently in the second season of a four-year, $68 million contract. A trade to the Lakers could provide him with a fresh opportunity to regain his form, especially on a team in need of scoring and playmaking off the bench.
Lakers’ Depth Issues in the Backcourt
In recent games, the Lakers have relied on rookie Bronny James and Shake Milton to back up Austin Reaves, following Vincent’s knee injury.
However, James struggled in extended minutes against Tyrese Maxey, who exploded for 43 points as the Lakers fell to the Philadelphia 76ers 118-104 on January 28.
Meanwhile, Milton saw more minutes in the Lakers’ dominant 134-96 win over the Washington Wizards, scoring a season-high 21 points on 7-of-8 shooting.
Adding Bogdanović could bolster the Lakers’ backcourt depth and provide a much-needed veteran scoring presence off the bench.
