It took a long time for Christian Wood to find an NBA home this summer. It finally happened. Wood signed a deal with the Los Angeles Lakers recently. Why did it take so long for this to happen?
Well, Wood is a complicated player. His offensive talent is undeniable. Wood is the rare big man who can either roll or pop out of pick-and-roll sets. That makes him an immensely valuable player alongside an elite playmaker like LeBron James. Unfortunately, Wood comes with problems. He’s prone to tunnel vision on offense, and he’s developed a reputation for lackadaisical play on the defensive end of the floor.
It will be interesting to see how this plays out. With that said, the Lakers could eventually make some moves to continue balancing out their roster. If they were able to acquire a strong defensive 4 for situations in which Wood isn’t working, that could be helpful. How about P.J. Tucker of the Philadelphia 76ers?
The Trade Proposal
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G Gabe Vincent, F Taurean Prince
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: F P.J. Tucker, G Patrick Beverley, 2024 Second-Round Pick (NYK via PHI), 2027 Second-Round Pick (PHI)
This is a pivotal moment in Wood’s career. He needs this to work. Seriously, on the off chance that Christian Wood reads this piece – we’re begging you to listen. Consider this an open letter.
Dear Christian Wood: You are a very talented basketball player. You’re young enough to earn another big contract in your life. With that said, you’re not going to earn it by trying to play like a superstar. If you can thrive in a role as a play finisher, you should have $20 million dollars a year at your disposal soon. That sounds pretty good, doesn’t it? Look at the contract you just signed.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: PJ Tucker, Philadelphia 76ers & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Oh – you’ve got to play defense. We understand that you’ve got limitations. You’re a bit thin for a 5, and a bit slow-footed for a 4. Play with effort. That’s all the Lakers can ask. With that in mind – should they really acquire Tucker to cover for you?
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
OK. We’ll start addressing a more general audience again. The Lakers won’t want to make this deal now – in fact, they can’t. Gabe Vincent was recently signed, so he’s subject to trade restrictions. That’s perfect. If the Lakers look like they’re on pace for title contention leading up to the deadline, they should keep the roster they currently have.
Let’s assume that they’re not satisfied with their place in the standings. Now, let’s assume that Wood has proven unplayable in certain situations. In that event, they may want to diversify at the 4 spot. They’ll want to be keeping tabs on Tucker’s performance level before they make this deal too – after all, he is quickly approaching the age of retirement.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: PJ Tucker, Philadelphia 76ers & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Let’s make a final assumption that Tucker is still a stout defender. This deal should bolster the Lakers’ defense – don’t sell Beverley short, either. Finally, the Lakers used second-round picks to improve their roster at last year’s deadline. They should also be happy to add a pair of them here. Should the Sixers give those picks up?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
Meanwhile, the Sixers have bigger fish to fry. We’re not sure what’s going to happen here. James Harden has requested a trade, and some have speculated that Joel Embiid will follow. The Sixers may have to rebuild.
If so, they could like this deal. Sure, they’re losing some second-round picks. They’re also getting younger. More broadly, they’re getting the player with the highest trade value in this deal. Vincent is only 27, and he’s an impactful NBA player. He provides floor spacing and defense.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: PJ Tucker, Philadelphia 76ers & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
The Sixers may not even look to keep him. He’s still a better trade chip than anyone they’re giving up here. Like the Lakers, the Sixers may wish to wait to see how their season is going before making a deal like this one. With that said, if they’re falling short of expectations, they won’t want to let much time pass before making a move.
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