LA Lakers rumors: NBA agents and executives believe LA Lakers will eventually relent and trade for Myles Turner and Buddy Hield
The LA Lakers are one of the worst teams so far in the 2022-23 season. After six games, the Lakers have won only one contest, which is very disappointing. However, it's far from shocking.
The Lakers do not have a great roster that can compete. This is why the team may end up trading for Myles Turner and Buddy Hield. These two players would drastically improve the team and possibly turn the Lakers into contenders.
“Several executives and agents around the league believe the Lakers will eventually cave, probably for the Pacers deal,” Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report wrote.
LeBron James would love to get his fifth championship ring, but if the LA Lakers don't make any big moves soon, he will have to wait at least one more season to get it. However, general manager Rob Pelinka could make some moves by the end of the year.
LA Lakers may trade for Buddy Hield and Myles Turner
The LA Lakers were linked to Buddy Hield and Myles Turner during the offseason as well. The team didn't make any moves that improved the roster, which is why many fans and analysts believed they'd make a trade with the Indiana Pacers.
Myles Turner is a fantastic big man who is a great shot blocker and rebounder. He's averaging 13 points and seven rebounds this season, along with 3.7 blocks, one of the best marks in the league.
The two-time blocks champion is on an expiring contract and is set to make $18 million for his services this year.
Buddy Hield, on the other hand, is one of the best shooters in the league. He's averaging 17.8 points on 46.4% shooting this year and has converted 42.7% of his long-range shots.
Considering how awful the LA Lakers are at 3-point shooting, adding the 6-foot-4 sharpshooter would be one of the best moves they could make. Hield has two more seasons left on his contract, which is relatively team-friendly.
Lakers will have to trade their draft picks
If the LA Lakers decide to pursue a trade with the Pacers, they will most likely have to give up their first-round picks in 2027 and 2029. Team owner Jeanie Buss and GM Rob Pelinka have been very hesitant when it comes to making this move, but it will have to be done.
Even if Russell Westbrook continues to play well off the bench, there is no reason for the Pacers to trade Buddy Hield and Myles Turner without the picks. Like Turner, Westbrook is on an expiring contract.
The LA Lakers are dead-last in the league on 3-point shooting. They've made only 26.6% of their 3-point shots so far in the season, which is 3% worse than the second-worst team.
Considering that even Turner can knock down long-range shots, trading Westbrook for the Pacers duo seems like a no-brainer. Unfortunately, the Lakers will have to trade their future if they want to be a somewhat decent team this season.