Lakers trade rumors: Why the Kawhi Leonard trade must happen

2. The Lakers have the best trade chip in Brandon Ingram and can afford to let him go

Perhaps the biggest obstacle in many fans’ minds of trading for Kawhi Leonard is the fact that the Los Angeles Lakers would probably have to give up Brandon Ingram in the process. Leonard is a superstar and would warrant a big return; Brandon Ingram is the perfect trade chip to float around when these kinds of rumors surface.

And while it would be sad to see Ingram go after seeing him make so much progress, it would be worth it in the end.

At the end of the day, Ingram’s ceiling would likely match that of Kawhi Leonard’s current value. Meaning if Ingram actually lives up to his full potential, he will still only be as good as Kawhi Leonard is. Leonard is an elite defender, perhaps the best in the league, and is a surefire MVP candidate when he is healthy.

If this was last season and the Lakers had no other young assets, I would understand the hesitation in wanting to trade Ingram. When the team only has one viable young star it is hard to let it go. However, the Lakers also have Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma and Julius Randle to lean on. That is a recipe for success.

It definitely is hard to let go of a young prospect like Ingram and would a lot for the Lakers to actually do. However, these Lakers trade rumors are more than worth it.