Strategy for a Contending Lakers Team in 2018-2019
On the horizon for the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2018-2019 season, the team has the opportunity to make some strategic trades that could significantly improve their performance. The Lakers' success will depend on acquiring players who can address critical shortages while also enhancing their overall depth and competitiveness.
Key among these trades is to identify which players should be considered for departure to free up valuable assets for these acquisitions. While these decisions will require tough choices, they are necessary to align the team's future directions.
Trades They Should Consider
There are three players the Lakers should aim to acquire, each capable of making significant contributions to the team's success during the 2018-2019 season. These players are:
Bradley Beal: The Ideal Option
Bradley Beal, the key player for the Washington Wizards, is an excellent option for the Lakers. The Wizards are currently on a rebuild and are performing poorly, making it an opportune time to make a trade. Beal's ability to score from both inside and out, particularly from beyond the arc, would address the Lakers' biggest concerns on offense. His presence would also elevate the team's shooting efficiency, which is desperately needed. Although acquiring Beal won't be an easy task, the Lakers might need to consider trading Josh Hart, Brandon Ingram, or Lonzo Ball to secure his services.
Kemba Walker: The Prodigal Talent
Kemba Walker is playing the best basketball of his career for the Charlotte Hornets, who are not in a position to compete for a championship title. Kemba's high value makes him a top target for the Lakers, especially when paired with LeBron James. Walker's shooting-first style complements LeBron's playmaking abilities, creating a formidable tandem on the court. However, this trade would likely include both Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram, reflecting the significant sacrifices required to bring such a star to Los Angeles.
Anthony Davis: The Game-Changer
Anthony Davis is currently one of the top five players in the NBA. His acquisition would be extremely difficult, but it would transform the Lakers into a championship contender overnight. Pairing Davis with LeBron James would result in a deadly lineup, capable of dominating opponents and securing a title. However, such a trade would require significant assets and a wholesale overhaul of the Lakers' roster, including big-name players like Brandon Ingram, Kyle Kuzma, and potentially even Lonzo Ball.
Current Team Performance and Future Aspirations
The Lakers have been consistently struggling, especially in the absence of point guard Rajon Rondo. The team's lack of a reliable three-point shooting ability and a volume scorer has been a significant factor in their poor performances.
Beyond the immediate trades, the Lakers should also focus on building a strong foundation for the future. This includes identifying players whom the team can consider trading away to strengthen their core and acquire the right talent.
Ultimately, the path to success for the Lakers in the 2018-2019 season and beyond will be through strategic and thoughtful trade decisions that prioritize the team's long-term goals over short-term gains.