Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal 

Of course he is. O’Neale is an archetypical 3-and-D wing. 

James plays well with those. Yet, somehow, the Lakers don’t have one on their roster. They need to address that problem over the offseason. 

Why not address it by landing O’Neale? Meanwhile, the Lakers shouldn’t miss Hachimura too badly. He’s been solid since joining the team, but he’s not a strong floor spacer or defender. 

O’Neale thrives in both regards. Whether this deal appeals to the Lakers will likely hinge on how they finish out this season.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Royce O’Neale, Los Angeles Lakers & Brooklyn Nets Updates

If they look like contenders, adding a quality role player like O’Neale would be a sensible decision. 

Would parting with him be the right move for Brooklyn?