Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers are in a tough spot. They need to figure out a way to upgrade the roster but are lacking the assets to make it happen.
Rob Pelinka has been hesitant to part ways with the team’s first-round picks in 2027 and 2029, but he may have to at this point.
Acquiring Patrick Beverley from the Utah Jazz was a solid first move, but there has to be more. If they can convince the Jazz to take back Russell Westbrook in a salary dump, that would be considered a win for the franchise.
Jordan Clarkson could very well be one of the players coming back in such a deal. Clarkson began his career with the Los Angeles Lakers, playing there for three and a half seasons before he was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jordan Clarkson, Utah Jazz & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Clarkson would be an excellent replacement for Malik Monk in the rotation. Monk turned in a career season playing that role and Clarkson could have a similar impact.
Both are excellent scorers that can create for themselves while also being capable of handling playmaking duties as well.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jordan Clarkson, Utah Jazz & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Clarkson wouldn’t be coming along, as Los Angeles has also been linked to Bojan Bogdanovic. The two of them would be enough salary to match Westbrook and at that point, the teams would just have to work out draft compensation. At least one of the team’s 2027 and 2029 picks would likely be heading to Utah, if not both.
