The Los Angeles Lakers have a solid roster, but with the NBA trade deadline approaching, that could all change. One thing is certain: Luka Doncic is in a win-now mindset and is eager to return to the NBA Finals.
“Dončić being just 26 gives the Lakers a far longer timeline to build a championship-contending team, but that doesn't mean they can slow down and take their time. Dončić told Lakers president Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick in May that he's not interested in taking the slow approach in building a contender,” CBS Sports’ Jasmyn Wimbish wrote.
A name to watch this trade season is Gabe Vincent, who was signed by the Lakers after coming off a Finals appearance.
“The Los Angeles Lakers are signing free-agent point guard Gabe Vincent away from the Miami Heat on a three-year, $33 million deal, according to The Athletic's Shams Charania,” CBS Sports’ Sam Quinn wrote.
If the Lakers decide to keep Vincent, it is likely to be his final run in Los Angeles. Lake Show Life’s Tyler Watts doesn’t see another contract coming from the team.
“This has been a disastrous signing for the Lakers. Vincent came to the Lakers fresh off being a starter on the Heat’s 2023 NBA Finals run. Los Angeles thought they were getting the ideal starting guard for a contender, but he has struggled to make shots and played subpar defense. The Lakers would love to trade Vincent’s $11.5 million expiring contract for an upgrade before the deadline. If that doesn’t happen, he will be looking for a new home in free agency. Vincent is not the off-ball guard the Lakers need next to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves,” Watts wrote.
For Vincent, this season has been a letdown after arguably the best year of his career. The Lakers have tried hard to make it work, but inconsistencies and injuries have prevented it from coming to fruition.
Los Angeles could pursue a younger, defensive-minded guard who can also shoot from deep. For Vincent, however, it looks likely that he will be taking his talents elsewhere, either at this trade deadline or in the summer.