Lakers Face Tough Decisions Ahead of NBA Trade Deadline

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — With the NBA trade deadline looming on February 6, the Los Angeles Lakers are grappling with critical roster decisions that could shape the team’s future. Despite a recent trade with the Brooklyn Nets for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton, the Lakers remain inconsistent defensively and lack depth at center, leaving fans and analysts speculating about their next move.

The Lakers’ limited trade assets, including just two second-round picks in 2025, complicate their ability to make significant upgrades. According to reports, the team may need to part with a starter like Rui Hachimura or leverage future first-round picks to address their glaring needs: a two-way wing, a playmaker, and a rim-protecting center.

“The Lakers are more likely to do something small than to take a big swing at the deadline,” said NBA analyst Eric Pincus. “Their limited trade chips and lack of mid-sized expiring contracts make it challenging to address all their needs.”

One potential solution involves a three-team trade scenario that would bring Toronto Raptors center Jakob Pöltl and guard Davion Mitchell to Los Angeles. Pöltl, a cost-controlled defensive anchor, could allow Anthony Davis to shift to power forward, replicating the Lakers’ successful 2020 championship formula. Meanwhile, Mitchell’s defensive prowess could help shore up the backcourt.

However, any major trade would likely require the Lakers to part with valuable assets. “L.A. is unlikely to improve without giving up first-round compensation,” Pincus noted. “At least this provides a way to protect it in the top-eight.”

As the deadline approaches, the Lakers face a pivotal choice: make a bold move to contend now, stand pat with their current roster, or consider a rebuild. With LeBron James and Anthony Davis still at the helm, the organization remains committed to competing, but the path forward is fraught with challenges.