The February 6 NBA trade deadline is right around the corner, and Lakers fans have more expectations from their teams than almost any other fanbase in the league. With how well LeBron James and Anthony Davis have been playing, there is widespread consensus that the Lakers are only a move or two away from serious championship contention.
The Lakers need more shooting, athleticism, and defense. While they are currently sitting in fifth place in the Western Conference, they haven't been able to put enough distance between themselves and the play-in race. With Anthony Davis set to miss time with his latest injury, the Lakers need to inject this team with more depth and talent at the trade deadline. To do so, they will need to part ways with a combination of the players below.
1. Gabe Vincent
After having a lost campaign in the 2023-24 season, Gabe Vincent is healthy and contributing to the Lakers. He has even started in five games this season as JJ Redick was searching for more perimeter defense and intensity.
While Vincent provides the Lakers with something they can't get from their other backcourt players with his defense, the 28-year-old guard has become too much of an offensive liability. His shooting woes that started last season have continued this season, as he has made 32% of his threes so far. Considering that he basically has no inside-the-arc game, this is a big problem for the Lakers.
Vincent's averages of 4.9 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 20 minutes per game on 50.4% True Shooting leave plenty to be desired. He is not a good enough defender on the other end of the floor to justify his lack of offensive production.
Vincent is under contract through the 2025-26 season, making $11 million per year. The Lakers are better off moving on from this salary by adding draft capital to it to upgrade the roster spot.