Are Lakers waiting for Bradley Beal to request a trade?

The Los Angeles Lakers are off to a dismal start but aren't ready to punt the 2022-23 season away just yet. 

According to Bleacher Report's Chris Haynes, the Lakers "are known to covet" Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal. 

The Lakers have had an interest in Beal in the past, but this particular instance comes with plenty of questions. 

Haynes points out that Beal is under contract for five more years with the Wizards, and his deal includes a full no-trade clause. So, Beal would have to ask for a trade out of Washington to facilitate a move to L.A. And that's only the first step. 

Next, the Lakers would have to put together a package to the Wizards' liking, and right now, they don't have many attractive assets to offer. 

This year, Beal is averaging 21.6 points, 5.7 assists and 3.6 rebounds while shooting a career-high 52.1 percent from the field. 

It's no surprise the Lakers would be interested in a move to inject some life into the team. With just two wins over their first 11 games, only the Houston Rockets (2-10) are worse in league standings.