As the LA Lakers gear up for the 2023-24 NBA season, anticipation is growing among fans and experts alike. With the return of LeBron James for his 21st year and the emergence of young talents like Austin Reaves, the Lakers are poised for an exciting season. However, insiders predict that the team may be active in making trades once the season is underway, aiming to strengthen their chances of capturing another title. In this article, we will explore five potential Lakers players who could be on the trade block.
LA Lakers Trade Possibilities Insider Predicts Active Deadline for the Team
1. Rui Hachimura:
Recently signed to a three-year, $51 million deal, Rui Hachimura brings a versatile skill set to the Lakers. With an average salary of $17 million, the team has no immediate urgency to trade the promising two-way player. However, if a compelling trade opportunity arises, Hachimura’s contract could make him an attractive asset.
2. Cam Reddish:
Cam Reddish, currently in the first year of a two-year deal, offers great value with an average salary of $2.3 million per year. Known for his scoring ability, Reddish averaged 12.8 points per game in the 2021 playoffs. Other teams may express interest in including him in trade talks due to his affordable contract and potential impact on the Lakers’ salary cap.
3. Max Christie:
At just 20 years old, Max Christie is an intriguing prospect with room for development. As a second-round pick, he is set to earn $1.3 million in the final year of his contract. While his salary doesn’t significantly impact the team’s finances, his production may not match up to that of other players like Reddish, who earns just $1 million more.
4. Christian Wood:
Christian Wood was acquired by the Lakers in a recent move before the preseason. While he displayed offensive prowess with the Dallas Mavericks, his defensive skills were questioned. Starting this season with a two-year $5.7 million deal, the 28-year-old could outperform the value of his contract. Wood’s contract makes him an attractive trade piece due to his solid production and reasonable salary.
5. D’Angelo Russell:
D’Angelo Russell’s future with the Lakers has been the subject of speculation, despite statements from GM Rob Pelinka expressing a desire to keep the team’s core intact. Russell’s contract demands caused uncertainty, and although an agreement was eventually reached, the emergence of Austin Reaves as a promising starter could make Russell expendable. While the Lakers won’t trade him without a strong reason, they may consider an enticing offer if it improves the team’s overall composition.
As the 2023-24 NBA season approaches, the LA Lakers are open to making trades to enhance their championship aspirations. While the team has assembled a formidable roster, insiders predict that they could be active on the trade market. Players like Rui Hachimura, Cam Reddish, Max Christie, Christian Wood, and D’Angelo Russell may be subject to trade discussions if the right opportunities arise. The time leading up to the trade deadline promises to be thrilling for Lakers fans as they eagerly await the team’s pursuit of another title.
