Does this trade make sense for the Los Angeles Lakers?

Not having a healthy Anthony Davis or LeBron James ended up proving to be quite costly to the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA playoffs, as one might expect. However, there were very real holes they faced that held them back from being able to better compete with the Phoenix Suns.

READ MORE: NBA Rumors: This Lakers-Pacers trade would send Myles Turner to L.A.

There was a considerable gap in perimeter shooting output between the Suns and that’s a key factor in them and the Utah Jazz being two of the most lethal teams in the Western Conference. That’s a weakness the Lakers need to address and Russell Westbrook is the opposite of a solution to this particular area.

Floor spacing is a vital element to success within the half-court for any offense. It’s especially important when Russell Westbrook is handling the ball and trying to get downhill. Playing on a team with Anthony Davis at the four spot with a lane clogging center at the five is the opposite of what’s ideal for Westbrook, or the Lakers to be successful.

There are some intriguing options the Lakers could have with LeBron James playing off-the-ball alongside Westbrook, like being used as a short-roll playmaker or gain a switch after popping. Taking the ball out of his hands isn’t the way to go, though. Instead, adding more shooters around him is the best course of action, especially if Anthony Davis isn’t full-time at the five.

This trade does become all the more logical if the Lakers were to lose Dennis Schroder in NBA free agency as he is set to be unrestricted this offseason. If there is an added desperation to add a veteran point guard, then concerns about fit aren’t nearly as important and it would be a top outcome.