Lakers Eyeing Essential Roster Upgrades

The NBA's unofficial trade season kicked off December 15, with Thomas Bryant landing in Indiana and Dennis Schröder joining Golden State. For the Lakers, sitting ninth in the Western Conference at 14-12, the timing presents an opportunity to address glaring roster needs.

According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic, league sources expect Los Angeles to be among the more aggressive buyers ahead of the February 6 deadline. The team has three clear needs: a physical defensive center, a 3-and-D wing, and an athletic guard who can defend at the point of attack.

Jonas Valančiūnas remains the most discussed target, averaging 11.8 points and 7.6 rebounds on a team-friendly deal with Washington. His interior presence could ease the burden on Anthony Davis, though his defensive mobility raises questions.

The Brooklyn Nets present intriguing options, with both Cameron Johnson and Dorian Finney-Smith potentially available. A package centered around D'Angelo Russell, Jalen Hood-Schifino and draft picks could dramatically improve LA's wing depth and perimeter defense.

Other possibilities include Portland's Robert Williams III, whose $12.4 million salary and rim protection (1.9 blocks per game) make him an attractive target, and Chicago's Zach LaVine, though acquiring the Bulls star would significantly deplete the Lakers' depth.

The wild card? Memphis guard Marcus Smart, whose $20.2 million salary matches Russell's expiring deal. While the Grizzlies' asking price of two first-rounders is steep, Smart's defensive intensity could be transformative.

While the entire roster (except Max Christie until January 15) is technically available, sources indicate certain pieces are virtually untouchable. Beyond LeBron James and Davis, this includes Austin Reaves, whose team-friendly contract and role as the third option make him particularly valuable.