LeBron James and Anthony Davis are having fantastic seasons, but the Lakers are 18-19 and outside of the top six in the West. A major trade seems inevitable, but adding just a star player might not be what they need, especially since LeBron and AD still look like the best players in the league. Darvin Ham’s job looks safe following a victory over the Clippers, mainly because he has support from Jeanie Buss. This means that a trade to adjust to him is more likely than the Lakers trying to finish the season with a new coach.
After a victory over the Clippers, Darvin Ham’s job appears secure, mainly because Jeanie Buss is rooting for him. This indicates that the Lakers are more likely to make a trade to accommodate him than to try to finish the season with a new coach. The Lakers’ success in the previous season can be attributed to their addition of playable depth, and they might need to make a deal with the struggling Portland Trail Blazers to acquire their veterans.
The Blazers receive salary flexibility and a number of assets that they could develop or trade, while the Lakers add two veterans who, in addition to LeBron and AD, could be significant contributors. The trade must be completed by January 15th.