Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal

Of course, this is a twist on what’s become a very commonly proposed trade package. Why wouldn’t the Pacers cut the Bulls out, and just acquire Turner and Hield? 

Frankly, this may be a better deal. Turner and Vucevic are practically opposites as far as big men go. Vucevic is more skilled – he’s got an array of moves on the low block and strong passing vision. Granted, Turner is the better defensive big, but with Westbrook departing, the Lakers could use the extra playmaking. 

Moreover, with better health from Anthony Davis, they may have the perfect player to mask Vucevic’s defensive limitations. With that said, this deal helps them do that in another way too: Caruso and the recently acquired Patrick Beverley could make for the best point-of-attack defensive combo in the NBA. 

Finally, Hield gives the Lakers a huge boost of floor spacing they sorely lacked in 2021-22. All told, this deal does what any Lakers deal this summer ought to do: it improves the team’s depth and fit. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Nikola Vucevic, Chicago Bulls & Los Angeles Lakers Updates

Still, the Lakers aren’t the only team in this trade with win-now aspirations. Does it help the Bulls?