Lakers rumors: LA held KCP, Donte DiVincenzo trade talks with Grizzlies, Timberwolves

The Los Angeles Lakers, seeking to improve their roster after a quiet start to free agency, have recently acquired Deandre Ayton and signed Marcus Smart. They are actively exploring trade options to further bolster the team, specifically targeting guard depth.

According to reports, the Lakers engaged the Memphis Grizzlies in discussions about acquiring veteran shooting guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP), a familiar face who won the 2020 championship with the team. However, these talks reportedly haven't gained significant traction since Memphis acquired him from Orlando and later traded Desmond Bane.

The Lakers also inquired about the availability of guard Donte DiVincenzo from the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, the Timberwolves, having lost Nickeil Alexander-Walker in free agency, showed no interest in moving DiVincenzo.

With 14 players under contract for the 2025-26 season and sitting just over $1 million below the first tax apron, the Lakers need to create financial flexibility to pursue additional free agents. Guard Malcolm Brogdon, whom the Lakers expressed interest in before the 2025 trade deadline, remains a potential target if they can free up funds through a consolidation trade.

The addition of Marcus Smart may signal the start of further moves. Players like Dalton Knecht and Gabe Vincent could potentially be included in trades as the Lakers continue efforts to build a competitive roster for the Western Conference.