The Los Angeles Lakers could trade for the Cleveland Cavaliers' starting center, Jarrett Allen, with the combination of expiring contracts and a future first-round pick.
With the NBA trade deadline approaching, the Los Angeles Lakers could strengthen their frontcourt.
Lakers in contention for Jarrett Allen trade
Dan Woike from The Athletic reports that the combination of expiring contracts and a future first-round pick could get the Lakers into a trade conversation for the Cleveland Cavaliers' starting center Jarrett Allen.
However, it also depends on whether the Lakers' expiring contracts would land with a third team.
Per Woike, the rival teams consider the Lakers as an "active" team ahead of the trade deadline.
This season, Allen averages 14.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.0 steal, and 0.9 blocks per game in 39 appearances for the Cavs.
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The main problem Lakers face to complete Jarrett Allen trade
However, the main problem for the Lakers remains their lack of draft capital and players with trade value.
Draft compensation could become the key hurdle to progressing with the Allen trade, as the third team might need a sweetener to take on the expiring contracts.
Why would Cavaliers trade Jarrett Allen?
As Cleveland continues to struggle with the second apron, they want to reduce their payroll further.
Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reports that multiple teams have spoken with the Cavaliers' front office about deals involving Jarrett Allen.
Siegel didn't specify which teams were in those conversations.
Donte DiVinceno among potential Lakers trade targets
Minnesota Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo is another player linked to the Lakers, per Woike.
The Lakers' trade package for DiVincenzo could be similar to Allen's, but it's unclear whether the Timberwolves would consider it.
The 29-year-old DiVincenzo averages 13.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.4 steals per game in 51 appearances for the Timberwolves.
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