Nobody likes a quitter. For the most part, nobody likes to quit, either. At the same time, it can be the only option. Sometimes, NBA teams need to give up too.

Let’s say work is driving you insane. Your relationship is deteriorating. You can’t sleep. It won’t be an easy decision to make – but you may have to quit that job. 

Not in a long-term sense – every team is building towards success. Unfortunately, sometimes it’s best to recognize that it isn’t coming any time soon. 

The Los Angeles Lakers don’t have that luxury. This team owes its upcoming first-round pick to the New Orleans Pelicans. They won’t be able to benefit from calling the season off. 

By contrast, the Toronto Raptors could. In fact, some would say that they should.

Here’s a deal that has them doing so – and enhancing the Lakers’ short-term prospects in the process.