3 Stunning Trades Lakers Can Make After Knicks' Karl-Anthony Towns Deal
By Cem Yolbulan
3. Michael Porter Jr. to Lakers
This one is less of a blockbuster than the previous two because of the names involved. However, it would be as surprising of a move as any because of the unexpected nature of it and the teams involved.
Michael Porter Jr. is far from a perfect player. He has defensive flaws. Offensively, he doesn't provide much playmaking, shot creation, or passing.
At the same time, he is the perfect fit next to LeBron and AD. He is an excellent off-ball player with an elite shooting touch. Thanks to his size and length, he can shoot over anybody, making him impossible to guard. He will get a ton of good looks playing next to James in Los Angeles.
MPJ has been a big part of Denver's success in the past couple of years. He has shown improved maturity and all-around play. But, he has three more years on his deal where he makes over $35 million per season.
The Nuggets have significant depth issues after losing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in the offseason. By flipping Porter Jr. into D'Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura, they get two rotation-caliber players. Plus, they get a first-round pick that they can use in another trade to upgrade the roster.
Win-win trades between good teams in the same conference are rare but this could be one. The Lakers need more top-end talent and the Nuggets need more depth. This satisfies both needs.