Players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis who are always in the win-now mode, the Los Angeles Lakers might need to make some smart additions as the 2024–25 NBA season goes on. Even while their core is still strong, they still need to improve in a few areas, especially because they play in the very competitive Western Conference. The Lakers could be proactive during the mid-season trade deadline, looking for players who can improve their shooting, defense, or playmaking skills to push the team into championship contention, given the heightened trade rumors. We’ll look at a few of the most likely trade prospects that might have a big impact on the Lakers this season below.
1. Jordan Clarkson
Jordan Clarkson might be a great trade candidate for the Los Angeles Lakers, providing them with the scoring depth they sorely need for the 2024–25 campaign. Clarkson demonstrated his capacity to generate offense on a regular basis last season, averaging 17.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. His field goal percentage of 41.3% and three-point percentage of 29.4%, however, indicate that he may not be able to completely end the Lakers’ long-range shooting problems. His versatility and ability to score points off the bench, however, would be a huge plus.
Both clubs stand to gain from the proposed trade, which includes Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and two future second-round picks. Relocating Clarkson would allow the Jazz to provide more playing time to their younger guards, Keyonte George and Collin Sexton.
their recently discovered gift. In the meantime, LeBron James and Anthony Davis would have less offensive pressure as the Lakers added an experienced shot creator to strengthen their backcourt.
Another valuable asset is Clarkson’s postseason experience; he has established himself as a trustworthy scorer in pressure-filled circumstances. Because of this, he is a solid choice for the Lakers when the game slows down and they need someone to break down the defense. Moreover, his prior experience in Los Angeles might make his return to the team easier.
The Lakers’ problems with three-point shooting, in particular, would not be solved by this trade, but Clarkson’s ability to score on his own and create his own opportunities would add a vital element to their attack. This move might help a team hoping to make a deep postseason run.
2. Bruce Brown
The Lakers may find Bruce Brown to be a useful addition if they want to improve their roster in the middle of the season. Recently traded to the Raptors in the Pascal Siakam deal, Brown has experienced hurdles, including undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery that will sideline him for much of the preseason. The Raptors exercised his $23 million team option for the season in spite of this setback, but they continue to build with younger players, leading to rumors of a possible trade.
A trade package featuring Rui Hachimura, Jaxson Hayes, and a 2025 second-round pick could benefit both teams, given Brown’s expiring contract and limited appeal to other contenders. Last season, Brown averaged 9.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists while playing for both the Raptors and Pacers. His shooting was commendable—48.1% from the field and 31.7% from beyond the arc—and he has a reputation for strong defensive skills. For the Lakers, bringing in Brown, who can guard multiple positions, would alleviate some of the defensive burden on Anthony Davis. Additionally, Brown’s versatility in various positions would provide the Lakers with greater lineup flexibility.
From the Raptors’ perspective, acquiring younger players like Hachimura and Hayes aligns with their long-term strategy. Given that Brown is on an expiring contract, it’s likely they’ll look to trade him before the deadline. Hachimura presents solid potential as a forward, while Hayes offers another young big man for development.
Earlier in the offseason, there were discussions about the Raptors flipping Brown shortly after acquiring him, but his surgery complicated those plans. However, once he returns to full fitness, his ability to impact both ends of the court and his championship experience from Denver make him an attractive option for the Lakers. If they aim for a deep playoff run, securing someone like Brown could prove to be a pivotal move.
