5 Trades Lakers Should Consider For Their No. 17 Pick in the 2024 NBA Draft

Brandon Ingram to Lakers

Another former Laker whose return would be welcome in Los Angeles is Brandon Ingram. After starting his career with the Lakers in the 2016-17 season, Ingram was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans for Anthony Davis after three seasons with the team. There, he blossomed into an All-Star and a very good scorer. Last season, he averaged 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game.

Now, he is entering the final year of his contract, and the Pelicans, who are in a difficult financial situation, are reportedly not too interested in giving him an extension. This makes him a potential trade candidate this offseason.

Ingram is not the cleanest fit in Los Angeles. He doesn't take too many three-pointers and is not the best off-ball player. He is also not as good defensively as his physical tools would indicate.

However, he is a very talented offensive player and would bring the overall talent of this team to the next level. If the Pelicans are willing to trade him for one first-round pick plus multiple players, the Lakers should seriously consider it.

Losing all of Reaves, Hachimura, and Vanderbilt would hurt as the Lakers are already lacking in depth. However, this allows them to maintain two future draft picks, which they could use on other deals to improve the roster.