NBA Rumors: Chicago Bulls team to watch as LA Lakers look for All-Star in exchange for picks
The LA Lakers have been a rather familiar figure in recent NBA rumors. While their pursuit of an All-Star caliber player has been well-documented, recent rumors suggest that their front office will be looking at the Chicago Bulls in potential trade talks.
The Lakers have been active in trade talks since the start of the offseason. While there weren't a lot of moves that the team made at the time, they have continued their pursuit of strengthening their roster.
However, this endeavor has resulted in practically nothing as the Lakers lack the necessary elements to facilitate any trade.
Teams have targeted the Lakers' two first-round picks in any trade talks. With the Indiana Pacers and San Antonio Spurs being the primary players in this regard, the Purple and Gold have been rather hesitant to follow through on a trade.
However, the Lakers may have set their sights on another team altogether. A recent reveal by ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski suggests that the LA Lakers may view the Chicago Bulls as a potential trading partner.
Woj spoke on the matter on NBA Today. He said:
"We know what their assets are the ’27 and the ’29 unprotected first-round picks. They’re not going to use those unless they can get back essentially an All-Star level player.
"Like a lot of teams, I think the Lakers will watch Chicago. See if that is an organization that decides it might pivot before the trade deadline. But I think what’s more realistic is expiring contracts and maybe one of those picks."
Woj: “The Lakers are not going to use their 1st round picks unless they can get back an All-Star level player back.” https://t.co/9c7wGSZH2I
Rumors regarding Chicago's superstars have seen several teams taking an interest in monitoring them. Meanwhile, the Lakers have also reportedly conducted internal discussions regarding a potential trade to acquire DeMar DeRozan.
A primary figure in any Lakers trade rumor pertaining to acquiring a superstar includes Russell Westbrook. While trading Westbrook would have made sense earlier in the season, the guard has been rather formidable as the leader of the bench mob.
This has caused some internal conflict as the team debates whether they need to trade Westbrook, who will be a free agent next season.
At 10-14, the LA Lakers do need to make changes. But there may be some speculation and debate regarding whether this needs to be a change involving a star or for valuable role players.
The LA Lakers are considering trading Patrick Beverley and Kendrick Nunn
As mentioned earlier, the LA Lakers are in the process of making a change. While this may not necessarily involve 9x All-Star Russell Westbrook, the Purple and Gold have other things in mind.
The Lakers are rumored to be in the process of considering trade options for Patrick Beverley and Kendrick Nunn. Beverley and Nunn have been relatively underwhelming assets this season.
While Beverley still provides some internal leadership and hustle on defense, he hasn't produced much offensively. Meanwhile, Nunn has been underperforming since returning from injury.
While neither player has a high trade value, young teams and rebuilding teams could benefit from veterans, especially Beverley, on their roster. Meanwhile, it could help the Lakers gain a more reliable rotation piece for the rest of the season.
Any trade involving Beverley will only take place after December 15th. With the date being rather important all of a sudden, the LA Lakers will hope to remain competitive until then.