Lakers Eyeing Jonas Valanciunas, Brook Lopez?

With a 5-4 start that’s included some worrying defensive lapses — reflected in their 24th-ranked defense — LA is reportedly turning up the heat on trade discussions. Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report notes that the Lakers have some notable names on their “internal board,” with Milwaukee’s Brook Lopez and Washington’s Jonas Valanciunas topping the list.

For those who’ve watched the Lakers so far, the issue is obvious: they need a defensive anchor. Lopez, with his shot-blocking and championship experience, would instantly provide that.

And then there’s Valanciunas, who, while more known for his rebounding and offensive touch, would bring size and grit — something the Lakers could use a dose of.

Of course, nothing in Lakerland comes without a cost, and D’Angelo Russell seems to be the piece being floated as outgoing salary. Russell’s scoring and playmaking have value, but his defensive deficiencies and inconsistency make him expendable if it means a more robust interior defense.

The Lakers are well aware that in a competitive Western Conference, sitting idle isn’t an option.

Whether GM Rob Pelinka can pull off a move that shifts the needle is the question. But if history has taught us anything, it’s that when the Lakers smell urgency, they act. And right now, with a roster that needs bolstering, the winds of change are blowing.

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