Lakers Linked to All-Defensive Wing as Possible Midseason Trade Target

The Los Angeles Lakers have largely solidified their roster for the season, built around the high-salaried duo of LeBron James and Luka Doncic, though perimeter defense is a significant weakness that could hinder their ability to contain opposing wings and guards. While the team has been connected to Andrew Wiggins in trade rumors, a deal appears improbable, and limited trade assets constrain their options for upgrades.

Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns are entering a rebuilding phase after trading Kevin Durant and buying out Bradley Beal, with expectations to make the playoffs behind Devin Booker and Jalen Green. In the Durant trade, the Suns acquired Dillon Brooks, an All-Defensive wing coming off a strong shooting season, who has two years left on his contract and addresses a need for defensive support.

Lakers insiders have speculated about targeting Brooks or Royce O'Neale from the Suns to bolster their defense, noting Brooks' ideal fit as a shooter and defender around Doncic, despite a past feud with LeBron James that could complicate team dynamics. The Suns may not be eager to trade Brooks, but if they reassess their playoff chances, he could become available.

A potential trade scenario involves the Lakers sending Rui Hachimura and Dalton Knecht to the Suns for Brooks, which would give the Lakers an upgrade on both ends of the floor while providing Phoenix with Hachimura's expiring contract for flexibility and Knecht as a young floor-spacer. This move would allow the Lakers to retain draft picks for future deals, aligning with a strategy to build around Doncic's strengths.