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Lakers trade rumors: The best trades to improve championship outlook

By Jason Reed

LAS VEGAS, NV - OCTOBER 08: Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka looks on before the team's preseason game against the Sacramento Kings at T-Mobile Arena on October 8, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Los Angeles won 75-69. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NV - OCTOBER 08: Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka looks on before the team's preseason game against the Sacramento Kings at T-Mobile Arena on October 8, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Los Angeles won 75-69. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /
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Trade Option #3:

They may not need to trade for a superstar, they may not need to find LeBron’s future running mate. Instead, the Los Angeles Lakers simply may look to clear up as much salary as possible, no matter what it takes. At the very least, the Lakers can get rid of their tradable assets, going all-in on the potential “Summer of Lakers” in 2018.

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In order to do that, the Los Angeles Lakers must turn to the Utah Jazz and their veteran, expiring contracts. One of those contracts, Derrick Favors, has already been linked to the Los Angeles Lakers; the groundwork is there. Now, all Los Angeles needs to do is pull the trigger and throw in another expiring deal: Joe Johnson.

Favors and Johnson would add nice veteran leadership to a young Lakers’ core that needs it. In fact, Derrick Favors would add to the nice depth at power forward and would be a suitable replacement for Julius Randle.

Favors is averaging 12.4 points and 7.1 rebounds on the season; more than enough for the Lakers off of the bench.

Johnson, on the other hand, would serve a role similar to Luol Deng and Corey Brewer. He will be there for depth, but ultimately, his role on the team is for a future that does not involve him.

Next: Eight trade targets for the Los Angeles Lakers

The Jazz are the perfect trade partners to make this kind of deal. They need the young talent to surround Rudy Gobert. Plus, they definitely have the cap space to match any offer sheet for Julius Randle in the offseason.

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