Lakers add a third star alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis in a blockbuster mock trade
As the Feb. 6 NBA trade deadline approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers are expected to remain relatively quiet, potentially making only minor adjustments. In December, they acquired Dorian Finney-Smith from the Brooklyn Nets, but the team has struggled recently, going 2-4 in their last six games and slipping to sixth place in the Western Conference.
If their slide continues, the Lakers risk dropping to the seventh seed, which would place them in the Play-In Tournament. They currently hold a slim lead over the Dallas Mavericks in the standings.
With limited draft assets, a tight salary cap, and a lack of ideal trade targets, the Lakers are not anticipated to make significant moves this winter. However, a trade proposal shared by Sports Illustrated’s Ryan Stano on Sunday could challenge those expectations.
The mock trade suggests sending Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and a 2029 first-round pick to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for Brandon Ingram. To make the salaries work, the Lakers would also need to include Max Christie. Ingram would then become the third star in an imposing lineup.
A potential starting five of Ingram, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Finney-Smith, and Austin Reaves could position the Lakers as serious title contenders. However, there are concerns about Ingram’s health. He has been sidelined since Dec. 7 with an ankle injury, and no timeline has been set for his return.
Before his injury, Ingram was averaging 22.2 points on 37.4% shooting from three-point range, along with 5.6 rebounds and 5.2 assists. If the Lakers are confident he can return to form in time for a playoff push, acquiring Ingram could significantly boost their championship aspirations.