Former All-Star Guard Identified as Realistic Lakers Trade Target

The Los Angeles Lakers are continuing their chase for a playoff spot in the Western Conference but the race for the postseason will be as tight as ever. Currently, the Lakers are sixth in the West with a 21-17 record but only 3.5 games separate the No. 5 and No. 12 seeds in the conference.

To separate themselves from this bunch and establish themselves as a surefire playoff team, the Lakers need to make roster upgrades. The February 6 trade deadline is looming, and GM Rob Pelinka would be wise not to leave any stone unturned.

Bleacher Report's Greg Swartz identified a dream and a realistic trade target for each team ahead of the deadline. As part of this exercise, he had Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray as an option for the Lakers.

The Lakers certainly have the scratch to trade for Dejounte Murray. They have two first-round picks, multiple second-rounders, and pick swaps that they can use to acquire the 28-year-old combo guard. They can use a combination of Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Jarred Vanderbilt to match salaries.

Considering the fact that the Lakers were reportedly interested in Murray in the offseason makes this a potentially realistic deal. Instead, the Hawks decided to trade the one-time All-Star to the Pelicans for two first-round picks, Dyson Daniels, and Larry Nance Jr.

That deal hasn't worked out for New Orleans, as Murray is in the midst of his least efficient season, shooting 39% from the field and 30.3% from three. The Pelicans have been the most disappointing team in the league this season, even with injuries considered.

Therefore, they should presumably be more than open to trading Murray. Whether the Lakers should give up significant draft assets (i.e. two first-rounders) to acquire him is a different question. If the price is right, however, Murray would be a worthy flyer for the Lakers desperate to make a splash.

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