The Los Angeles Lakers remain focused on adding talent to surround LeBron James and Anthony Davis as they hope to compete for an NBA title again. Coming off a Western Conference Finals appearance, the team doesn’t need much, but who could be the right piece?
There should be a focus within the Lakers’ talent acquisition efforts, though. When was the last time you looked up James’ age? He’s a historically great player, but he’s nearing retirement. So, the Lakers are getting younger. They targeted young players throughout free agency.
We wouldn’t be surprised if they continued to pursue that youth movement. Could Jalen Suggs of the Orlando Magic be their point guard of the future?
The Trade Proposal
Orlando Magic Receive: F/C Jarred Vanderbilt
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Jalen Suggs
The Orlando Magic are preparing for the present. Is that the right move? It’s hard to say. This team is built around Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Some would suggest that it’s too early to do things like sign Joe Ingles.
Sure. How long is Orlando supposed to lose? This team flashed some potential last season. They’re in a good position to take a step forward as an organization.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jalen Suggs, Orlando Magic & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
So, the Magic are getting older. They brought in Ingles as a veteran presence and a floor spacer. This team has signaled an intention to be more competitive next season. Would acquiring Vanderbilt help?
Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal
Well, if the Magic are intent on bringing in shooting, they won’t like this deal. Sure, Suggs is a subpar shooter for a guard. Vanderbilt is a non-shooter. How does this help Orlando? On the defensive end.
Realistically, Vanderbilt is coming in as a Jonathan Isaac replacement. By now, the Magic must be skeptical about his ability to stay healthy.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jalen Suggs, Orlando Magic & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Vanderbilt can function similarly as a versatile defender. The Magic can use him off the bench as a combo big. Meanwhile, they’ve got enough guards to spare Suggs. Should the Lakers take him on?
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
In fact, Suggs has been a little disappointing throughout his NBA career. This is a risky move for the Lakers. Still, it could come with an enormous payoff. It’s easy to forget, but Suggs was the fifth overall pick in the 2021 NBA draft. This is a player with an impressive pedigree.
Meanwhile, his NBA track record hasn’t been all bad. Suggs is an outstanding defender. He’s also a good passer who can set up teammates for easy looks.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jalen Suggs, Orlando Magic & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Why not take a gamble on him? Suggs could be this team’s point guard of the future. Meanwhile, Vanderbilt fell out of this team’s rotation this year anyway. The Lakers might as well flip him for a younger player.
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