NBA Los Angeles Lakers

5 Last-Minute Trades Los Angeles Lakers Should Consider Before the 2015 Deadline

Fresh Videos

By @JosephMCrevier

5 Last-Minute Trades Los Angeles Lakers Should Consider

Los Angeles Lakers
Andrew D. Bernstein-Getty Images

Los Angeles Lakers management will undoubtedly be exploring their options as we approach the NBA trade deadline in about two weeks. Though no major deals are expected to occur, the Lakers remain in play for just about anything. Nobody is off limits, as the team has performed very poorly, likely headed for a top-five draft pick. Looking to rebuild, Los Angeles must consider these five trades to possibly expedite the process.

5. Dallas Mavericks

Los Angeles Lakers
Andrew D. Bernstein-Getty Images

5. Dallas Mavericks

Los Angeles Lakers
Andrew D. Bernstein-Getty Images

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Al-Farouq Aminu, '18 First-Round Pick
Dallas Mavericks Receive: Ed Davis

Davis has undeniably proven himself as a capable NBA player throughout his stint with the Lakers. However, the big-man is expected to decline his player option for next season to enter the free agency market this summer. Los Angeles snagged Davis at a bargain price, but because of his improved play, that price tag has soared.

4. Miami Heat

Miami Heat
Stephen Dunn-Getty Images

4. Miami Heat

Miami Heat
Stephen Dunn-Getty Images

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Shawne Williams, Norris Cole, '15 Second-Round Pick
Miami Heat Receive: Nick Young

The relationship between Young and Byron Scott justifiably turned sour recently. Young has made a mockery of himself on defense and has become so obsessed with drawing a four-point play that his shot is almost always affected. Shipping his four-year deal out to a team in desperate need of offense, like Miami, is the Lakers' best option.

3. Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland Cavaliers
Bill Baptist-Getty Images

3. Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland Cavaliers
Bill Baptist-Getty Images

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Iman Shumpert
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: Ed Davis, Ronnie Price

Defense was a major issue for the Cavaliers, at least until they acquired Shumpert and Timofey Mozgov in early January. The defensive numbers have played a key role in Cleveland's winning streak, but the team could still use some size up front. Davis is a more valuable piece on the Cavs roster, while Price is also solid insurance in the backcourt.

2. Charlotte Hornets

Charlotte Hornets
Garrett Ellwood-Getty Images

2. Charlotte Hornets

Charlotte Hornets
Garrett Ellwood-Getty Images

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Lance Stephenson, Jeff Taylor
Charlotte Hornets Receive: Jordan Hill, Nick Young

Despite his inordinate amount of flaws, Stephenson remains an extremely talented player who can make major contributions in the right situation. A solid foundation is necessary to keep Stephenson in line, and playing with Kobe Bryant could be good for him. Dumping Hill and Young's salaries would be an added bonus.

1. Oklahoma City Thunder

Oklahoma City Thunder
Richard Rowe-Getty Images

1. Oklahoma City Thunder

Oklahoma City Thunder
Richard Rowe-Getty Images

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Reggie Jackson, Kendrick Perkins
Oklahoma City Thunder Receive: Jordan Hill, Ronnie Price

Upon Dion Waiters' arrival, Jackson has visibly been distraught. He's frustrated and clearly has one foot out of the door already, presenting Los Angeles with the perfect opportunity to buy low on him. The lack of assurance regarding his future will scare off other teams, but giving up just Hill is well-worth the risk.

Share Tweet
Trending Now on