Lakers trade rumors: New trade targets for LA after 2019 offseason news
By Jason Reed
Dwight Howard — Charlotte Hornets
Is Dwight Howard the most hated former member of the Los Angeles Lakers? Probably. Are you screaming at me for even suggesting that the Lakers go out and re-acquire the center? Without a doubt.
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However, acquiring Howard is not all that bad. The things a deal for Howard would allow the Lakers to accomplish is one thing; the star they can package alongside with him is another.
Although the Lakers are now looking at their current status through a wider lense, they cannot afford to miss out on big opportunities. That big opportunity, at least for now, is acquiring Kemba Walker. With the Charlotte Hornets reportedly taking deals for Walker, this move can become something special for the Lakers.
Walker can create a dynamic backcourt alongside Lonzo Ball. The Hornets, who want expiring deals, can get an expiring deal like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope as well as one they can hold onto, like Jordan Clarkson.
In return, the Lakers do not necessarily get any closer to a title or change their long-term plans. Instead, they get a two-year rental on Howard and Walker that will help their young guys at least know what it is like to win in the NBA.
The worst-case scenario here is this whole thing not working out and the Lakers just letting Walker and Howard walk away when their contracts are up in 2019; right in time to spend all that money the team freed up.
Next: The big five of the 2019 offseason
It is an interesting deal, it certainly is an unconvential deal. However, it should not be ignored amongst other Lakers trade rumors.