Shocking Lakers Trade Target Emerges Amid Losing Streak

The Los Angeles Lakers are in the midst of an up-and-down season, which has lately been more down than up. They are 12-10 and look like they will be in the play-in mix throughout the season. More than the on-court performance, however, Lakers fans have their eyes on the trade market.

The fanbase is aware of the fact that in its current construction, the Lakers roster is not good enough to compete for a championship, regardless of whether the head coach is Darvin Ham, JJ Redick, or Phil Jackson. As a result, they are hoping for upgrades before the February 6 trade deadline.

One potential trade target that has emerged recently could intrigue the fans. Brandon Ingram who started his career in Los Angeles after being selected second overall in the 2016 NBA Draft, is a candidate to return to the Lakers in a potential mid-season deal. NBA insider Jake Fischer reported on Friday that even though he hasn't confirmed the reports of Lakers' interest in Ingram, there is constant chatter around the league about the Ingram-to-LA move.

"Ingram's first NBA franchise is indeed whispered often by scouts as a potential destination for the next Ingram trade, but I haven't been give any indication that the Lakers are looking to pursue him now. All credible signals circulating about the Lakers suggest that L.A. is looking to fortify its frontcourt and add perimeter defense to assist LeBron James and Anthony Davis."

- NBA Insider Jake Fischer

The New Orleans Pelicans are 5-18 for the season and look like they are headed to the lottery. Ingram's contract expires at the end of the season and considering where they are as a franchise, the Pels are highly unlikely to give him an extension that will satisfy the All-Star forward.

This makes Ingram easily acquirable on the trade market. The asking price will likely determine the extent of the Lakers' interest. The idea of giving up multiple first-round picks for the privilege of giving Ingram a multi-year deal worth over $45 million per year may not be so thrilling for the front office.

There are certainly questions about Ingram's fit next to LeBron James and Anthony Davis, as well as injury concerns. At the same time, he is arguably the best player the Lakers could realistically acquire mid-season. Whether Rob Pelinka feels the same way remains to be seen.

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