3 Trades the Lakers Must Pursue After JJ Redick Hiring

Deni Avdija

The Lakers need more defense and more wing play. They were a very guard-heavy team last year because of their lack of depth at the forward. One of the primary goals this summer should be finding a reliable wing that can guard the best player on the opposing team. Deni Avdija can fill that role.

Because he has been with the Washington Wizards since he was drafted in 2020, Avdija has gone largely under the radar. However, he was one of the most improved players in the league last season, taking a massive jump on the offensive end of the floor. He increased his field-goal percentage to 50.6% and his three-point accuracy to 37.4%. On top of that, he can handle the ball, make plays for his teammates, and run the pick-and-roll.

In addition to his increased offensive efficiency, Avdija has always been a very good defender. He is big, strong, and possesses lateral quickness to stay in front of offensive players. This two-way combination in a 23-year-old is hard to come by.

Therefore, the Lakers should be willing to part ways with two first-round picks to acquire him.

On paper, this may not seem like the sexiest trade proposal for Lakers fans. However, it's time the Lakers focus on impact and production rather than the reputations of the players. Avdija may not have the same name recognition as some of the more popular names but he is much better than most of them.

Plus, Avdija is under team control until the end of the 2027-28 season on a declining, team-friendly deal. The Lakers' future will be in good hands if they are able to trade for a young player of that caliber.