Lakers' Rumors: Clarkson, Randle and Nance Jr., all on the trading block
What's the story?
Jordan Clarkson, Julius Randle, and Larry Nance Jr. are the top 3 choices to be traded by the Los Angeles Lakers.
In case you didn't know...
LeBron James will finish his 3-year contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Paul George his 1-year contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder making them two of the biggest prices in the upcoming free agency.
The heart of the matter...
The Lakers have been vocal about their intention to sign two max. deal level players this summer. Although signing them is far from a guarantee, the top contenders have been LeBron James and Paul George.
The most recent speculations had risen around Jordan Clarkson and Julius Randle. Clarkson, who is in the second year of a four year deal, and Julius Randle who will become a free agent at the end of this season. But according to Adrian Wojnarowski from ESPN, the Lakers are now considering Larry Nance Jr. as well in the trade talks, as he reported:
"The Los Angeles Lakers, needing to shed salary for summer free agency, had been hopeful of waiting until the end of the season to move Jordan Clarkson — owed $26 million beyond this season — but there’s a mutual desire to find something sooner than later. The Lakers have made it clear that Clarkson, Julius Randle and Larry Nance are available."
This is the first public announcement of the Larry Nance Jr. being considered amongst the players to be traded. Parting with Randle has been on the minds of the Lakers for a very long time as his minutes and role have frequently fluctuated.
What's next?
The Lakers have lost 9 out of their last 10 games and have dropped to the bottom of the table. They would like to regain their way as they face the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday.
Author's take
If the Lakers are able to land two max. contract players by trading these three pieces, it should be worth the trade.