Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Lakers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
With less than a month left before the NBA trade deadline closes, it’s time for the Lakers to make a decision.
The team can clearly rack up wins. However, every game they lose is by double figures, including blowout defeats against the Spurs and Thunder, two teams ahead of them in the Western Conference standings.
The Lakers are reportedly looking for a “real needle-mover” and not a short-term solution, which makes a trade even harder to make with just several weeks left.
So, with time running out and a desire for an impact player still what the Lakers want, our SB Nation Reacts Survey asks, Do you expect the Lakers to make a trade before the deadline? And what is their biggest need as they search for the right deal?
It takes two to tango. Even if the Lakers really want to upgrade their roster, they need a partner willing to make a trade that benefits LA.
While Lakers President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka was able to acquire Dorian Finney-Smith and Luka Dončić, that’s not the norm. Usually, deals don’t happen and those that do don’t exactly shake up the basketball world.
With how few rumors have been swirling around and time running out, it’s not out of the realm of possibility that nothing happens with the Lakers roster this trade deadline window.
However, the Lakers have reportedly shown interest in Herb Jones, and with a desire to get younger, perhaps a deal can happen as we inch closer to the deadline.
Additionally, our survey asks what the Lakers need to address, from shooting to defense.
Obviously, both would be ideal. But every team desires 3-and-D wings, and even those that fit that archetype typically lean on one of those skillsets more than the other.
The Lakers are a horrendous defensive team, so adding anyone who can stay in front of an offensive player would be a great addition. LA has a defensive rating of 117.6, and that’s the fifth-worst in the NBA.
Shooting-wise, the Lakers are struggling from the perimeter. The team converts only 34.3% of 3-point shots, which is also fifth-worst in the league.
While the Lakers have found success this year, there are multiple things to fix and likely not enough time, resources, or teams interested in making a deal. So the front office will have work to do to get anything done and might have to decide what needs must be addressed right away and work on a trade for that.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.