How This Trade Impacts Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers have to do whatever they can to shake this roster up in the offseason. Moving on from Russell Westbrook should be their No. 1 priority.

If they want any chance of contending next season, they have to balance out the roster and moving him is the best way to do it.

While they may not get stars in return for him, taking back some long-term money to build the rotation back up isn’t a bad idea. In this deal with the Orlando Magic, the Lakers are restocking their rotation, which was depleted when they acquired Westbrook.

Markelle Fultz would take over as their new starting point guard. He has come a long way since the struggles he had with the Philadelphia 76ers after being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. He brings some defense to the table that is lacking and another player that can create some offense.

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Terrence Ross is someone the Lakers have had their eye on for a while. He is a perfect fit alongside LeBron James with his skill set. He is a good 3-point shooter and instant offense if he comes off the bench. He could fit into the role Kentavious Caldwell-Pope held down for a few seasons.

Jonatan Isaac is the big piece coming back to Los Angeles. He would make for an intriguing frontcourt pairing with Anthony Davis given his inside-out style. Los Angeles would be tough to score on around the basket with the length Davis and Isaac provide.

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It hurts parting ways with two first-round picks, but the Lakers have to make it worthwhile for Orlando. The package of players is worth a pick and they will have to surrender one to move on from Westbrook as well.