How The Lakers Get Better After This Move
The Lakers are in need of a rapid and strategic roster upgrade, with a three-team blockbuster trade and the signing of DeMar DeRozan presenting an ideal solution.
**Current Offseason Challenges**
The Lakers are under significant pressure this offseason. They missed out on stars like Klay Thompson and Jonas Valanciunas. Thompson joined the Dallas Mavericks in a major sign-and-trade deal, while Valanciunas signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the Washington Wizards, adding veteran depth to their rebuilding efforts.
As the Lakers regroup, other teams are making significant moves. The Brooklyn Nets traded Mikal Bridges to the New York Knicks, causing a stir in the Eastern Conference, and Cam Johnson is reportedly on the market, attracting interest from various teams. The Utah Jazz are also open to trading multiple players to accumulate draft picks, signaling a major rebuild.
With the clock ticking, the Lakers need to act quickly and strategically to strengthen their roster. With the free agency window closing, a three-team blockbuster trade and signing DeRozan could keep them competitive next season.
**The Blockbuster Trade to Shake Up the League**
– **Lakers receive:** Cam Johnson, Collin Sexton, Walker Kessler
– **Nets receive:** D’Angelo Russell, Cam Reddish, 2026 swap pick (via Lakers)
– **Jazz receive:** Rui Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Jaxson Hayes, Christian Wood, 2029 first-round pick (via Lakers)
The Lakers have been actively seeking roster improvements, with a particular interest in acquiring Cam Johnson from the Brooklyn Nets. Johnson, a sharpshooter, would greatly enhance the Lakers’ perimeter game, which struggled in the playoffs. His addition would provide a reliable shooter, while Collin Sexton and Walker Kessler bring youth and defensive capabilities.
The Brooklyn Nets, in a rebuilding phase after trading Mikal Bridges to the Knicks, are open to moving other key players. Acquiring D’Angelo Russell and Cam Reddish, along with a future pick, supports their rebuilding efforts by adding experienced players and future flexibility.
Meanwhile, the Utah Jazz have shown a willingness to trade significant pieces like Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler. Their openness to trades indicates a strategy to gather more draft picks and young talent for future development. Receiving multiple young players and a future first-round pick aligns with their goal of stockpiling assets and building a young core.
**Key Additions**
**Cam Johnson** is an elite shooter. Last season, he averaged 13.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game while shooting nearly 40% from three. His shooting will spread the floor and give LeBron and AD more room to operate. Johnson’s height and wingspan also make him a decent defender on the perimeter, which the Lakers need.
**Collin Sexton** is a scoring machine, averaging 18.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game last season. His ability to drive to the basket and score in bunches will relieve pressure on LeBron and AD. Sexton’s playmaking abilities also make him a dual threat, bringing energy and competitiveness to the team.
**Walker Kessler** is a shot-blocking beast, averaging 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game last season, mainly off the bench. His presence will significantly improve the Lakers’ defense in the paint, making opponents think twice about driving to the basket. Kessler’s rebounding skills will also help the Lakers dominate the boards.
**Signing DeMar DeRozan**
The Lakers need to make a strong push for DeMar DeRozan this offseason. DeRozan, one of the league’s most consistent scorers, is hitting free agency, and his addition could be a game-changer for the Lakers.
DeRozan averaged 24.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game last season with the Chicago Bulls, shooting 48% from the field. Despite his impressive performance, the Bulls have struggled in the playoffs, and DeRozan has expressed a desire to contend for a championship.
DeRozan’s ability to score from mid-range and drive to the basket would add a reliable third-scoring option for the Lakers. His playmaking abilities, evidenced by his 5.3 assists per game, would take some pressure off LeBron, allowing him to play off the ball more. At 34, DeRozan brings veteran experience and leadership to a team with a mix of young players and established stars.
There’s considerable interest in DeRozan from other teams like the Los Angeles Clippers and Golden State Warriors. The Lakers will need to manage their cap space carefully, possibly through trades or other financial adjustments, to accommodate DeRozan’s contract.
**A Revamped Team**
**Starting Lineup:**
– Collin Sexton
– DeMar DeRozan
– LeBron James
– Cam Johnson
– Anthony Davis
**Bench:**
– Max Christie
– Austin Reaves
– Rui Hachimura
– Jarred Vanderbilt
– Walker Kessler
This revamped lineup under new head coach JJ Redick blends veteran leadership with youthful energy and skill, making the Lakers a powerhouse in the NBA. Collin Sexton brings dynamic scoring and energy to the point guard position, complementing LeBron and AD. DeRozan’s scoring consistency and mid-range prowess will relieve offensive pressure from LeBron, making him an ideal third-scoring option. Cam Johnson’s shooting will spread the floor, giving LeBron and AD more room to operate inside, while also providing valuable perimeter defense. Anthony Davis will continue to anchor the defense and contribute significantly on offense.
The bench depth featuring Max Christie and Austin Reaves provides additional energy and shooting. Rui Hachimura and Jarred Vanderbilt bring a balanced frontcourt presence, with Hachimura’s scoring and Vanderbilt’s defensive and rebounding capabilities. Walker Kessler, as a shot-blocking specialist, will bolster the Lakers’ interior defense. This combination of young talent and veteran experience off the bench ensures that the Lakers can maintain a high level of play even when their stars rest.
In conclusion, integrating Sexton, DeRozan, and Johnson, along with a strong supporting bench, significantly enhances the Lakers’ potential. This revamped lineup under JJ Redick’s strategic guidance could translate to a deep playoff run, providing a legitimate shot at the championship. With the right execution, this team has the tools to achieve great success and bring another title to Los Angeles.
o Los Angeles.
