Proposed Trade Could Bring $128 Million Champion to the Lakers
JJ Redick, Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers have shown promise this season but sit just above .500 after 24 games. With a 13-11 record, JJ Redick’s squad has struggled to maintain consistency in the opening months.
When facing challenges, the Lakers have often turned to the trade market. Rob Pelinka’s aggressive moves at the 2023 trade deadline helped the team reach the Western Conference Finals, only to be swept by the Denver Nuggets. If the franchise hopes to give LeBron James another championship shot, Pelinka might need to make bold decisions.
In a recent article for The Wrightway Sports Network, Arkay proposed the Lakers consider Jordan Poole as a high-potential trade target. The sharpshooting guard was part of the Golden State Warriors’ 2022 championship team.
Poole has rebounded from a tough debut season with the Washington Wizards and is currently averaging 20.4 points, 5 assists, and 2.2 rebounds. He’s shooting 46.7% on two-point attempts and 40.8% from beyond the arc, highlighting his offensive resurgence.
Arkay’s trade suggestion is as follows:
Lakers Receive: Jordan Poole
Wizards Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Gabe Vincent, and a 2025 second-round draft pick.
“Their success hinges on their shooters—when they’re hot, the offense clicks; when they’re cold, the team struggles,” Arkay explained. “Adding creative, on-ball offensive talent like Poole would address this inconsistency. He’s arguably the best option without jeopardizing long-term assets. For Washington, shedding his $100+ million contract without including draft picks provides valuable financial flexibility.”
Poole is currently in the second year of his four-year, $128 million contract. His scoring ability and playmaking would be significant for Redick’s team.
Poole’s Potential Role in Lakers’ Future
Acquiring Poole could immediately improve the Lakers’ half-court offense. At 25 years old, he could also help guide the team’s transition to its next era. With LeBron James and Anthony Davis aging, the front office will eventually need to rebuild. Pairing Poole with Austin Reaves and Dalton Knecht could form a promising young core for Redick.
On Dec. 6, after a loss to the Atlanta Hawks, LeBron acknowledged his career is nearing its end.
“I don’t know,” LeBron told Spectrum SportsNet. “I just play the game the right way, compete at a high level, and leave it all on the floor. My time is limited, but I’m grateful to still play the game I love.”
If LeBron’s time is running out, adding a talented young player like Poole could become a crucial move for the franchise.
Anthony Davis’s Future in Question
According to The Athletic’s Jovan Buha, there’s a chance Davis could consider leaving the Lakers once LeBron retires. Speaking in a recent YouTube video, Buha said:
“I wouldn’t rule out Davis requesting a trade. He’s been happy in L.A., but he’s likely aware of LeBron’s plans. If he does ask out, the Lakers should respect that. At that point, it might make sense to rebuild, retain their picks, and move forward with a younger core. That said, I lean toward Davis staying, but I wouldn’t be shocked if he wanted out.”
If the front office views Davis as a flight risk, they should consider investing in players like Poole now. Trading Davis could bring significant assets, allowing the Lakers to rebuild around their younger talent and give Redick a chance to craft a new identity for the team.
For now, however, the Lakers need immediate offensive improvement. Poole could provide the spark they need. If the Wizards are open to negotiations, the Lakers should explore the deal and assess its potential cost.
Adam Taylor is a basketball writer covering the Boston Celtics and Phoenix Suns for Heavy. He has also contributed to CelticsBlog, USA Today, Yardbarker, and FanSided. Taylor holds a bachelor’s degree in creative writing from Open University.