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By Matt Levine
Contributing Sports Writer
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The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to be one of the more active teams in the NBA ahead of the trade deadline next year. Los Angeles has the tools to make a season-changing trade, but it remains to be seen how wide they'll go.
The Lakers have been in a similar place roster-wise for almost two seasons, but the front office hasn't pulled the trigger on a deal yet. Much like last season, many expect the Lakers to do something, giving them a better chance to compete come playoff time.
Los Angeles is a middle-pack team as things stand, but the Lakers believe that they can go on another title run. The Lakers still have LeBron James and Anthony Davis on the roster, giving themselves some hope if they can reach the postseason.
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But once they get there, the roster needs an upgrade if they truly want to contend. Los Angeles needs more help on the defensive end of the floor while also improving their 3-point shooting.
In this new trade scenario, the Lakers make a deal to land a multi-time All-Star guard who has been on their radar for some time now. The team also lands a wing that can shoot the 3-point shot well and defend at a high level.
Here is what a deal could look like between the Lakers and rival San Antonio Spurs:
Lakers receive: Guard Chris Paul and forward Harrison Barnes
Spurs receive: Guard D'Angelo Russell, guard Jalen Hood-Schifino, forward Jarred Vanderbilt, a 2029 first-round draft pick, and a 2025 second-round draft pick
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This trade would be a little bit of a risk due to Paul's health, but if he's healthy, he could help this team. Paul can help take a load off James in running the team down the stretch of games.
Even at his age, Paul has continued to play at a high level. For the year, he has averaged 9.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 8.4 assists per game.
The veteran is on an expiring contract so Los Angeles wouldn't be tied to him for a long time. This could finally get the All-Star to the Lakers after so many years of being linked together.
Barnes could greatly help this team with its wing defenders. Although he isn't the same player he once was, he would instantly be the best option for Los Angeles.
During the season, Barnes averages 11.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. He has also shot 44.7 percent from beyond the 3-point line this year.
All in all, this deal could give the Lakers a better chance to compete in the Western Conference. It will be up to general manager Rob Pelinka to get a deal done this season while also maintaining flexibility down the line.
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