Full Breakdown
Lakers Pursue Defensive Upgrades Ahead of Trade Deadline
12/26/2025, 12:14:38 PM
Core Event: Lakers Target Herb Jones for Defensive Boost
The Los Angeles Lakers are actively seeking to enhance their roster with a focus on acquiring defensive talent, particularly targeting New Orleans Pelicans wing Herb Jones. With the NBA trade deadline set for February 5, 2024, the Lakers are looking to address their defensive shortcomings, which have been highlighted by their current ranking of 24th in defensive efficiency, allowing an average of 121.6 points over the last ten games.
Background: Lakers' Defensive Struggles
Lakers head coach JJ Redick has publicly criticized his team's defensive effort, emphasizing the need for commitment and hard work on that end of the floor. The team's recent performances have underscored a lack of athleticism on the wing, prompting the Lakers to prioritize the acquisition of a "3-and-D" player—someone who can shoot from long range while also providing solid defense.
Key Target: Herb Jones
Herb Jones has emerged as the Lakers' top trade target, with analysts noting his potential to significantly improve the team's defensive capabilities. However, the Pelicans have indicated a high asking price for Jones, which includes multiple assets that the Lakers may struggle to provide. Currently, the Lakers can offer only one tradeable first-round pick (2031 or 2032) and the expiring contracts of players like Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent, which may not meet New Orleans' demands.
Market Dynamics: Limited Options
The Lakers are not alone in their pursuit of 3-and-D players; many teams are eyeing similar talent. Other potential targets for the Lakers include Keon Ellis of the Sacramento Kings and Derrick Jones Jr. of the Los Angeles Clippers. However, the Lakers' limited asset pool complicates their ability to make a significant trade. They lack second-round picks between 2026 and 2031 and face challenges in matching salaries for potential trades.
Official Statements & Responses
JJ Redick has stated, “There are shortcuts you can take, or you can do the hard thing and you can make the second effort... It’s just a choice.” This reflects the urgency for the Lakers to improve their defensive performance as they approach the Christmas Day game against the Houston Rockets, which marks a critical moment for the team amid a two-game losing streak.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the Lakers' proactive approach, some analysts caution that the market may not yield the desired players. Marc Stein noted, “It's equally unclear… if a player who can help address the Lakers' need for a 3-and-D wing… becomes available between now and the Feb. 5 trade buzzer.” This skepticism highlights the difficulties the Lakers may face in executing their trade plans.
What's Next: Upcoming Trade Deadline
As the Lakers prepare for their Christmas matchup against the Rockets, they will continue to explore trade opportunities to bolster their roster. The performance in this game could influence their urgency and strategy leading up to the trade deadline, as the team aims to solidify its position in the competitive Western Conference.
