The Los Angeles Lakers have had a solid start to the season. They have started out 10-6, which is good for fourth place in the Western Conference. In past seasons, the team has started slowly, and they spend the rest of the year trying to dig themselves out of a hole. While the hot start has been great, the team does have some roster issues. Rumors are already starting to swirl about what Los Angeles will do at the trade deadline. Reports indicate the Lakers are very interested in Brooklyn Nets forward Dorian Finney-Smith.
Los Angeles Lakers Eyeing Dorian Finney-Smith
The Nets are a good team from which to get pieces. After trading Mikal Bridges this offseason, they are clearly trying to gather assets for a rebuild. Dorian Finney-Smith came over in the Kyrie Irving trade and is a solid defender and shooter. Anthony F. Irwin of Clutch Points reported the Los Angeles Lakers have been in “constant contact” with the Nets about Finney-Smith. They have some pieces they could get rid of and some desirable picks to entice Brooklyn.
The fit is perfect for the Lakers. Anthony Davis is having an MVP season, averaging 30.1 points, 11.1 boards, and 1.9 blocks per game. LeBron James is still putting up stats and shows no signs of stopping. Players like rookie Dalton Knecht have been great, but the team needs more shooters and defenders to surround their two stars. Finney-Smith is averaging 10.8 points and 4.5 boards per game while shooting 41% from three. The report also indicates the team is interested in Cam Thomas, although it might take more time to acquire him because of his play.
A Tough Western Conference
It isn’t a surprise the Los Angeles Lakers want to bolster their roster. Their championship window is closing. James is in the twilight of his career and Davis is no spring chicken either. The time to win is now. The issue for the Lakers is getting out of the West will be tough. Ten teams currently have winning records with another handful hovering around .500. Some of these teams are loaded with talent and have the assets to make more moves.
Oklahoma City has a war chest of draft picks and could swing a trade for anyone. Even if they don’t, they have enough talent on the roster to win a title. Golden State is in a similar position to the Lakers. They are trying to keep their championship window open with Steph Curry and Draymond Green. Houston is off to a hot start with their young core. On top of those teams, Dallas, Denver, Phoenix, and a slew of other teams will also be tough outs in the playoffs.
Final Thoughts
Any team with LeBron James on it will be in trade rumor articles for the next three months. The Los Angeles Lakers brand raises the stakes as well. This team is expected to compete for championships. There are definitely moves to make but fans should feel good about where this team is at currently. If they can nab home-court advantage for at least the first round, that would put them in a way better position than in years past. What will the Lakers ultimately do at the deadline to improve their team? And will it be enough?
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