Some problems only have expensive solutions. It’s unfortunate, but it’s a matter of fact. If you total your car, and you need a car, we’ve got bad news: you’re going to spend a lot of money. Some NBA teams need an expensive solution, too.

They’re not in a position to tank, yet they aren’t winning either. There will be means available for them to crawl out of that hole, but they won’t be cheap. 

The Los Angeles Lakers are in that exact predicament. They owe their upcoming draft pick to the New Orleans Pelicans. Yet, they have a losing record at 19-22. They could get back to contention, but it will cost them. 

The Portland Trail Blazers aspire to be contenders, but they have sunk so far that they aren’t even holding a play-in spot right now. It’s too far into the season to avoid being concerned.

Right now, the Lakers would be well served trying to use their future draft picks to add a difference-making talent from the Trail Blazers if they are open to such a reshuffling deal.

Here’s a deal that has them paying the price by acquiring Anfernee Simons of the Portland Trail Blazers.