Lakers Rumors: Possible Trade Packages for Larry Nance Jr.
By Jason Reed
I really, really, like this trade for the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers would be achieving so many things with this deal it is absurd, and if they are ever presented anything similar to this, they should jump at it almost instantly. Los Angeles is bringing young stars Khris Middleton and Thon Maker (pictured above), and effectively getting rid of Deng’s contract.
First off, the Lakers would save about five million dollars in this deal, as Middleton’s contract is a tad higher, but still, he is a far better option than Deng. It should be noted that the Lakers only get a 2018 first round pick if they don’t receive their pick this season, therefore, if they were to deal it that means no Lonzo Ball.
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Middleton fills that hole that the Lakers wanted Lonzo Ball to cover. Instead of moving D’Angelo Russell to shooting guard they keep him at the point and bring in a young dynamic shooting guard who is only getting better. As the third option on the Bucks Middleton averages 14.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. Put him in the Lakers scheme and he could easily score 20 a game.
Then, perhaps the most intriguing part of these deal is big man Thon Maker.
Thon Maker has not done much his rookie season in limited playing time, due to injury, but his ceiling is immensely high. Basketball fans got a glimpse of his athleticism in the Bucks playoff game against the Raptors, and the 20-year-old will only get better.
The Lakers would then be a little thin at power forward, but that is what the draft is for. The Lakers would still maintain the Rockets selection and their own second round, giving them two chances to draft a decent power forward.
Next: Trade Packages for Jordan Clarkson
Overall, these Lakers rumors are very promising for the Lakers organization. Fans may love Larry Nance Jr., but if he is overpriced like this, the Lakers should definitely listen to these Lakers rumors.