The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to be one of the more active teams ahead of the NBA trade deadline next year. Los Angeles has been hovering around or just slightly above the .500 mark in the standings for some time now and may need to make a trade to truly contend.
With LeBron James and Anthony Davis still on the roster, the Lakers believe that another title run could be in the cards. But in order for that to occur, Los Angeles will need to upgrade the talent level around the two stars.
The Lakers have been linked to multiple players ahead of the trade deadline, much like any other season. But with limited resources to spend in any trade, Los Angeles will need to be creative to get anything substantial done.
More news: Blockbuster Trade Idea Sees Lakers Land Multi-Time All-Star and $18M Wing
The biggest areas that the Lakers need help with are in the frontcourt and on defense. Los Angeles has seen a drop in their defensive abilities over the past few years and hasn't recouped much talent.
But in a new trade scenario, Los Angeles lands a former Defensive Player of the Year. The deal would be between the Lakers and Memphis Grizzlies, sending guard Marcus Smart out west.
Lakers receive: Guard Marcus Smart
Grizzlies receive: Guard D'Angelo Russell, guard Jalen Hood-Schifino, a 2029 first-round draft pick, and two 2025 second-round draft picks
Landing Smart would be intriguing for the Lakers as he would give them a true point-of-attack defender. Los Angeles brought guard Gabe Vincent in to play that role but to this point, Vincent hasn't lived up to the promise.
Smart could be a solid addition to this team, helping them be more effective on the defensive end of the floor. For the year, Smart has averaged 9.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.3 steals per game.
While he is having a down year from beyond the 3-point line, Smart has shown the ability to hit 3-pointers at a high rate in the past. Smart would cost Los Angeles at least one first-round pick but adding him to the team could be worth it.
The Lakers have a lot of work to do before the trade deadline and will need to exhaust all options. This is just one idea that could turn them into more formidable contenders to go after the championship this season.