Lakers Can Create 3 Different Superteams If They Trade Austin Reaves And D'Angelo Russell
The Los Angeles Lakers have been solid but unspectacular so far this season. They are at the spot where many felt they would be, having an 11-8 record and not proving to be elite in any category. Los Angeles ranks 19th in offense (111.8 points per game) and 17th in defense (113.7 points per game), meaning they are constantly getting scored on but do not have the elite shooting required to succeed in the modern NBA.
The Lakers are shooting 33.8% from three as a team and are not finding scoring outside of LeBron James (25.1 PPG) and Anthony Davis (21.8 PPG). Without proper scoring and inconsistent defense, the Lakers need to find a third All-Star player to change their fortunes around and push for another Western Conference Finals appearance after making it last season against the Denver Nuggets.
Luckily, the Lakers do have some roster flexibility and can manage to create three different superteams by utilizing their most prized trade assets including but not limited to D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and some first-round picks. Without further ado, here are three superteams the Lakers can create this season to push for the 2023-24 NBA championship.
Adding Zach LaVine As A Third Option
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The first superteam can be created by going after one of the best players on the trade market right now and adding increased shooting and athleticism with All-Star Zach LaVine.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Zach LaVine
Chicago Bulls Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
In the proposed trade sending D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and a 2029 First-Round Pick to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Zach LaVine, the Los Angeles Lakers would be making a smart move that many expect them to try and make. Zach LaVine, a dynamic scorer and playmaker, would provide the Lakers with an additional offensive weapon alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. This season, LaVine is averaging 21.0 points per game on 44.3% shooting from the field despite being involved in trade rumors all season.
LaVine's ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting (career 38.2%) and create his own shot could alleviate some of the offensive burden on James and Davis, offering the Lakers a more balanced scoring attack. Additionally, at 28 years old, Zach LaVine not only contributes to the Lakers' immediate championship ambitions but also serves as a crucial investment for the franchise's future.
As LeBron James approaches the final stages of his illustrious career, securing a player of LaVine's caliber ensures a smooth transition for the team's leadership. LaVine's age aligns with the timeline of Anthony Davis, forming a potentially dynamic duo that could carry the Lakers into the post-LeBron era. With the ability to create his own shot and excel in various facets of the game, LaVine could emerge as a long-term cornerstone for the franchise.
While parting ways with two starters and draft assets isn’t ideal, the acquisition of LaVine could significantly elevate the Lakers' championship aspirations in the short term. The move not only addresses immediate needs but also aligns with the win-now mentality often associated with teams contending for NBA titles. It's a calculated gamble that emphasizes the Lakers' commitment to maximizing the championship window with their current core.
Trading For A Superstar Point Guard
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The second superteam can be created by completing a shocking blockbuster deal for superstar point guard Trae Young. Young has not been dangled in any trade discussions so far, but he would be a blessing for the Lakers franchise.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Trae Young
Atlanta Hawks Receive: D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Gabe Vincent, 2028 First-Round Pick Swap (LAL), 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
With this proposed trade, the Lakers are making a strategic move to secure one of the most exciting and skilled young point guards in the league. Trae Young's arrival in Los Angeles would significantly reshape the team's offensive identity, adding a dynamic playmaker and deep shooter who can stretch defenses and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. This season, Young is averaging 25.6 points and 10.4 assists per game with the Hawks.
Young's skill set not only addresses immediate needs but also positions the Lakers for sustained success. At just 25 years old, Trae Young represents a long-term investment for the Lakers, aligning with the timeline of Anthony Davis and offering a glimpse into the post-LeBron era. The trade reflects the Lakers' commitment to building a roster that can contend for championships both in the present and the future, acknowledging the need for a seamless transition beyond LeBron James' tenure.
Furthermore, the addition of Trae Young to the Lakers' lineup creates an intriguing dynamic duo with Anthony Davis. Young's ability to break down defenses and Davis' versatility as a big man and rim protector could form the foundation of a potent inside-outside combination. The Lakers, historically known for iconic duos, may be on the cusp of establishing a new partnership that can carry the team into the next era of NBA competition.
Creating The Best Big Three In The NBA With Donovan Mitchell
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The best option for the Los Angeles Lakers to create a superteam to win the 2023-24 championship and actually be the favorite going forward is to trade for Donovan Mitchell. Mitchell’s future in Cleveland is uncertain but the Lakers can take advantage and offer a massive trade package to the Cavaliers.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Donovan Mitchell, Isaac Okoro
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, 2028 First-Round Pick Swap (LAL), 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Donovan Mitchell, a high-scoring and dynamic shooting guard, brings a versatile offensive skill set that includes three-point shooting, playmaking, and the ability to create his own shot. This addition would not only complement the playmaking abilities of LeBron James but also provide the Lakers with another scoring option alongside Anthony Davis. Mitchell is averaging 28.0 points per game on 36.0% from three while also chipping in 5.4 rebounds and 5.2 assists per game.
The inclusion of Isaac Okoro in the trade further bolsters the Lakers' defensive capabilities. Okoro, known for his athleticism and defensive prowess, adds a valuable dimension to the team's perimeter defense. His ability to guard multiple positions could contribute to the Lakers' overall defensive strategy, addressing a key area of improvement for the team. The combination of Mitchell's offensive firepower and Okoro's defensive acumen could create a well-rounded backcourt that significantly enhances the Lakers' competitiveness.
On the flip side, the Cleveland Cavaliers receive a package centered around D'Angelo Russell, a skilled guard with scoring ability and playmaking prowess. Paired with young and promising talents like Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura, the Cavaliers acquire assets that align with their goal of building a competitive and sustainable roster. The inclusion of future first-round picks adds to Cleveland's ability to secure talent through the draft, further positioning the team for long-term success.
While parting ways with D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and future draft assets may seem like a significant investment for the Lakers, the acquisition of Donovan Mitchell and Isaac Okoro provides immediate returns in terms of on-court impact. Mitchell, in particular, is in the prime of his career at 27 years old, aligning with the championship aspirations of the Lakers and offering a foundation for sustained success. This trade reflects the Lakers' commitment to making strategic moves that address both short-term goals and the team's long-term trajectory in a highly competitive NBA landscape.
The Lakers Can Win The 2023-24 Championship With One Blockbuster Trade
As the Lakers gear up for the 2023-24 NBA season, the prospect of securing a championship is not only within reach but potentially accelerated through a strategic blockbuster trade. In the first proposed trade, landing Zach LaVine injects immediate offensive firepower, creating a dynamic trio with LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Alternatively, the trade scenario involving Trae Young introduces a new era of playmaking and shooting prowess, embodying the Lakers' adaptability to evolving NBA landscapes. The potential Young-James-Davis trio not only addresses current needs but lays the foundation for sustained success post-LeBron.
In the third blockbuster trade, the acquisition of Donovan Mitchell and Isaac Okoro from the Cleveland Cavaliers represents a comprehensive approach. Mitchell's scoring prowess and Okoro's defensive acumen create a well-rounded solution to the Lakers' needs.
While each proposed blockbuster trade offers enticing possibilities, securing Donovan Mitchell stands out as the most ideal scenario for the Lakers. Mitchell's scoring prowess and ability to elevate his game in crucial moments make him an ideal fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. However, it's important to note that pulling off a trade for a player of Mitchell's caliber may prove to be the most challenging, given his established role with the Cavaliers.
Although not as difficult, the Trae Young trade, involving the 25-year-old point guard, also presents a difficult option given his age and the potential for long-term synergy with the Lakers' core. Finally, the Zach LaVine trade appears to be the most accessible, with LaVine reportedly on the trading block.
Regardless of the specific trade scenario, any acquisition from this trio has the potential to transform the Lakers into a superteam, positioning them alongside the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals and presenting a formidable chance to capture the ultimate prize – an NBA championship. The stakes are high, and the Lakers' pursuit of a superteam signifies their unwavering commitment to championship contention.
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