The Los Angeles Lakers’ narrow 127-125 loss to the Dallas Mavericks is likely to intensify trade speculations. However, one of their frequently rumored targets may not be the ideal fit.
Darnell Mayberry of The Athletic cautioned on December 12 about the potential acquisition of Zach LaVine, stating, “[Zach] LaVine sounds ideal next to LeBron [LaVine] because he can shoot. But put LaVine on the Lakers, stash him in the corner and see how that goes. What we might think is good for LaVine and what LaVine might want for LaVine could be vastly different.”
There has been a persistent concern that star-level players teaming up with LeBron James often find themselves relegated to off-ball roles. LaVine, known for his efficiency, whether on or off the ball, may face challenges if placed in a different role. His recent stint in Chicago involved disagreements with head coach Billy Donovan over his role and reports of discord in the locker room.
LaVine’s injury history is notable, including a torn ACL in 2017 and an arthroscopic procedure before the 2022-23 season, affecting his early-season performance. He is currently sidelined for over three weeks due to foot inflammation, and his play had not met his usual standards before the injury. Additionally, Caruso has an extensive injury record.
While there is genuine interest from the Lakers in LaVine, reports suggest they might prefer acquiring Bulls stars Alex Caruso and/or DeMar DeRozan in a trade. Jovan Buha of The Athletic mentioned the Lakers’ interest in LaVine but noted that they could explore scenarios involving Caruso in a package to acquire LaVine.
The challenges include LaVine’s significant five-year, $215 million contract, limiting potential suitors. Despite this, NBC Sports Chicago’s K.C. Johnson proposed a scenario where the Bulls might include Caruso in a trade for LaVine, although the likelihood remains uncertain.
Yossi Gozlan, on “The HoopsHype Podcast” on December 12, labeled LaVine as an “obvious” trade target for the Lakers. While there were reports of the Bulls showing interest in Austin Reaves, the Lakers, having re-signed Reaves to a four-year, $53.8 million contract, may not entertain that possibility. Caruso, perceived as the “one that got away,” could be a focal point in a potential trade package, prompting speculation about the Lakers’ willingness to pursue him.
LaVine’s history includes knee injuries, notably a torn ACL in 2017 and an arthroscopic procedure before the 2022-23 season, impacting his performance at the beginning of the campaign. Currently sidelined for over three weeks due to foot inflammation, he had not been performing at his usual standards before the injury. Caruso also has a significant injury record.
Jovan Buha of The Athletic confirmed the Lakers’ genuine interest in LaVine but noted their preference for acquiring Bulls stars Alex Caruso and/or DeMar DeRozan in a trade. K.C. Johnson from NBC Sports Chicago proposed a scenario where the Bulls might need to include Caruso in a package to trade LaVine.
However, LaVine’s substantial five-year, $215 million contract has limited interest from potential suitors. While it may be challenging, the Lakers could explore a pathway to secure two of their top three trade targets without sacrificing additional draft capital. Nevertheless, such a deal would likely come at a considerable cost.
Zach LaVine Emerges as a Clear Trade Target for the Lakers
“When you mention who the Lakers are targeting, the obvious target is Zach LaVine,” said Yossi Gozlan on “The HoopsHype Podcast” on December 12. “I saw reports that the Bulls are interested in Austin Reaves, but the Lakers wouldn’t do that.”
Los Angeles extended Reaves’ contract for four years, totaling $53.8 million during the previous offseason. Although he faced challenges as the starting point guard initially, Reaves has found his rhythm in a sixth-man role.
However, according to Buha, Caruso is considered the “one that got away.” The question remains whether Los Angeles would commit wholeheartedly to acquiring him in a trade package.
“They definitely need a point-of-attack defender like Caruso to defend some of the better ball-dominant players in the league,” Gozlan argued.
Caruso is currently signed to a cost-effective three-year contract, amounting to $36.9 million.
Lakers Exercising Patience in the Trade Market
Whether it’s a deliberate decision or due to prevailing circumstances, the Lakers are not feeling the urgency to execute a move. Leading up to Tuesday’s game, they had secured victories in 12 out of their last 16 matches. However, the recent defeat against a depleted Mavericks team might prompt a reassessment, given the considerable efforts that went unrewarded.
While LaVine might not be the Lakers’ foremost preference, he is certainly among their considerations. If they can secure him at a favorable price, pursuing a trade becomes even more logical. On a separate note, the discussion around including Reaves to acquire Caruso represents a distinct consideration. In certain aspects, it could be viewed as a lateral move, taking into account their popularity among the fanbase and the organization’s confidence in both players.
