It is no secret the Los Angeles Lakers are on the hunt for another star player, and while they are unlikely to snag one at the NBA trade deadline, they could be a player in a possible Trae Young trade market this summer.
It has been another disappointing season thus far for the Lakers. Despite three stars and a new head coach, the team is under .500 with a record of 23-26 and resides outside the playoff picture in the NBA standings.
Certainly, Anthony Davis’ month-long absence with a foot injury has had a major effect, but considering Lebron James’ outstanding play the last two months as he chases the NBA scoring record, the team should still be better than this. Unfortunately, the team is not expected to make a major move before the Feb. 9 NBA trade deadline and improve their chances to contend this season.
Also Read: NBA insider explains Los Angeles Lakers grim trade deadline prospects
While it is widely known that LA is willing to part with future first-round picks, they are still limited by the players they can add in a deal and lack of cap flexibility. However, that could change this summer and a chase for one of the best young players in the game could be possible.
Los Angeles Lakers could target a trade for Trae Young this summer
Another team that has been disappointing during the 2022-2023 NBA season is the Atlanta Hawks. Heading into Thursday, the team is only a game over .500 despite a talented roster and backcourt featuring stars Trae Young and Dejounte Murray.
Over the last couple of months, rumors of drama inside the organization have circulated, including speculation that head coach Nate McMillan and Young could be looking for an escape from Atlanta.
On Wednesday, Bleacher Report NBA insider Eric Pincus gave an update on the Hawks and Young situation. While both sides aren’t necessarily pushing for a trade at the moment, a source revealed when a market could form, and the Los Angeles Lakers place in it.
“I think Trae will want out after the season,” one NBA source said. “The Hawks probably try to get out of John Collins and others by the deadline, but Trae’s a long shot. Maybe the [Lakers] in July with his ties to Klutch [Sports].”
– Report on Trae Young trade market
- Trae Young stats (2022-2023): 27.1 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 9.9 APG, 32% 3PT
In the summer, the Lakers will have Russell Westbrook’s massive contract off the books and future first-round picks that are a year closer. While a team like the New York Knicks and their horde of draft selections should be a strong contender for Young, Atlanta may prefer to send him out west and avoid many future games and possible playoff clashes against Young in the years ahead.