The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in a very curious spot as we approach the NBA trade deadline. Los Angeles has looked like a true contender at different times this season but they have also looked very vulnerable at other times.
Many expect them to be active to improve the roster for a deep playoff run. We have already seen the Lakers land veteran wing Dorian Finney-Smith in a trade but the team wants more firepower.
In this new trade idea, Los Angeles finalizes its roster for the postseason by adding multiple pieces. The deal would be between the Lakers, Toronto Raptors, and Detroit Pistons.
Here is what a deal could look like using the Spotrac trade machine and following the new CBA restrictions for trades.
Lakers receive: Kelly Olynyk, Bruce Brown Jr., and a 2028 second-round draft pick
Pistons receive: Gabe Vincent and Cam Reddish
Raptors receive: Rui Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Christian Wood, a top-5 protected 2029 first-round draft pick, and a 2029 second-round draft pick
The Lakers would come out as clear winners in this deal as they get ready for the playoffs. Landing both Brown Jr. and Olynyk could vastly help this team reach its goal of winning another title.
Los Angeles has long been interested in adding Brown Jr. and almost did in free agency a few seasons ago. His versatility and shooting could give the Lakers a big boost. Plus he is on a $23 million expiring contract, giving Los Angeles some potential financial flexibility after the season.
As for Olynyk, he could help solidify the Lakers frontcourt issues. The veteran big man spaces the floor well, shooting 44.4 percent from beyond the 3-point line this season.
The Pistons could land a veteran guard in Vincent to aid in their quest for the playoffs. Vincent could help the young Detroit team out by giving them playoff experience and some extra shooting for their playoff run.
As for Tronto, they land a valuable contract in Hachimura that they can use in another trade down the line. The Raptors would also land a coveted asset in the Lakers 2029 first-round pick, even if it has some protections attached to it.
This is just one route for these teams to take ahead of the trade deadline but it could be mutually beneficial for all involved.
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