New Los Angeles Lakers Trade Idea Secures Elusive Big Man In 3 Team Deal

Despite recent improvements, the Los Angeles Lakers’ defense still faces challenges. Anthony Davis, a key figure on the team, has publicly expressed his desire to spend more time playing at the power forward position.

This preference, which Davis communicated to General Manager Rob Pelinka in private discussions during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, necessitates the acquisition of a starting-caliber center or at least a high-level backup to complement Davis’s preferred role.

Davis has played 96% of his minutes at center this season. In the title-winning 2019-20 season, he played 40% of his minutes at center, per ESPN.

ESPN recently solved this for the Lakers with a three-team trade that would send Myles Turner to LA from Indiana.

Los Angeles Lakers Trade For Myles Turner

NBA: In Season Tournament-Indiana Pacers at Los Angeles Lakers
Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

Lakers receive:
Myles Turner

Indiana receives:
Rui Hachimura
2029 top-5 protected first

Toronto receives:
Jalen Hood-Schifino
2029 second from Portland

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The potential acquisition of Myles Turner presents a calculated risk for the Los Angeles Lakers.

While Turner possesses the defensive prowess to significantly enhance the Lakers’ frontcourt and complement Anthony Davis, acquiring him comes with inherent risks. LA possess limited future draft capital, and the cost of acquiring Turner could be substantial. Furthermore, Turner is entering free agency this summer, creating uncertainty regarding his long-term future with the team.

However, Turner’s impact could be significant. His career-high 39.3% three-point shooting percentage adds a valuable offensive dimension to his game, while his ability to average nearly two blocks per game solidifies his defensive dominance.

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