NBA Rumors: LA Lakers could still pursue Buddy Hield after Myles Turner’s reported rejection of Pacers' extension
The LA Lakers-Buddy Hield rumors aren't going away any time soon. The latest reports from Bleacher Report's Eric Pincus state the Lakers could still pursue the sharpshooting guard. This after his teammate Myles Turner rejected an extension offer from the Indiana Pacers.
"The Lakers and Pacers had more serious talks before the season on a Westbrook/Turner/Hield swap, but that ultimately went nowhere, with Indiana requiring two first-round picks for any deal," wrote Pincus.
"If Turner isn't restructured and extended, the Lakers could still pursue Hield, but that would still cost L.A. a first to move off of Westbrook."
The Lakers were in talks with the Pacers to acquire both players for Russell Westbrook's expiring $47 million deal. However, that deal didn't come to fruition as the team was reluctant to offload future first-round picks. LA has only two firsts left (2027 and 2029).
NBA rumors suggest the LA Lakers will use those picks only if they bring in a superstar-caliber player in return. Reports suggest the Lakers are interested in players like Kevin Durant, Damian Lillard and Bradley Beal if they become available.
The Lakers could be holding out on those picks for that opportunity. However, that possibility seems far-fetched. All three of the Lakers' "dream targets" have publicly committed to their respective teams.
Buddy Hield remains a realistic target for the Lakers and a piece needed to improve the squad. Hield is averaging 17.9 points this season, shooting 42.9% from 3-point range on 9.0 attempts. The Lakers lack 3-point shooting and a reliable third-scoring option. The former Kings swingman would be a solid addition in that regard.
NBA Rumors: LA Lakers value Russell Westbrook enough to not offload firsts to get rid of his salary
Russell Westbrook was the focal point of potential trades this summer for the LA Lakers. Westbrook continues to be a part of the rumor mill. However, according to Eric Pincus, the Lakers will have to include a first-round pick to offload his salary in any potential trade.
But the Lakers don't think that's needed. Westbrook's improved play after he was moved to a bench role. This has led the team's brass to believe that they won't have to include a first-round pick unless the return instantly boosts their chances of a deep playoff push.
The LA Lakers are 18-21 and on a three-game winning streak to start in 2023. They have been without Anthony Davis in that stretch, so the current roster has shown tremendous potential. However, the Lakers need upgrades to sustain their current form.
They have been streaky this season. A large part of it is due to their roster construction. They need size on the wings and more perimeter shooting. Considering their recent play, it would be fair to assume that the team could be a couple of pieces away from being a legitimate contender.
Click here to read Eric Pincus' report on the latest LA Lakers rumors.