In the NBA, winning a championship is the ultimate goal. Generally, doing so is also a sign that your team is set up for sustained success.

On the other hand, that isn’t always the case. Just look at the Los Angeles Lakers. They were the 2019-20 champions. Unfortunately, the shine has worn off. At 19-21, they don’t look like contenders in 2022-23.

Meanwhile, the 2018-19 champions haven’t sustained their success either. At 16-23, the Toronto Raptors do not even appear likely to factor into the playoff race this season. 

With the Lakers having Russell Westbrook’s expiring contract at their disposal, these two teams could benefit from engaging in a trade. It’s hard to envision Westbrook being a long-term option, requiring Los Angeles to decide sooner rather than later.

An intriguing trade target for the Lakers could be Fred VanVleet. He has to determine his future with the Raptors in the near future. The timing could work quite well.

Could these two recent champions make a deal this season?