Lakers have perfect weakness-shattering trade target hiding in plain sight

The Los Angeles Lakers are considering a trade for Indiana Pacers wing Aaron Nesmith before the February 5 deadline to address their perimeter defensive weaknesses. Nesmith, coming off a strong two-way performance helping the Pacers reach the NBA Finals, is seen as a potential solution.

Indiana may be motivated to trade Nesmith due to facing a gap year following Tyrese Haliburton's Achilles tear and Myles Turner's departure in free agency. The Pacers, historically reluctant to pay the luxury tax and facing potential tax concerns next season (especially if they extend Benedict Mathurin), could look to cash in on Nesmith before he becomes a free agent in 2027.

While the Lakers signed Marcus Smart for defense, his struggles on the perimeter and staying healthy have raised concerns, potentially forcing the Lakers to seek an upgrade. Nesmith is viewed as a perfect fit due to his shooting (43.1% from three last season), on-ball defense, ability to attack closeouts, and playoff toughness. He aligns with the Lakers' timeline building around Luka Doncic.

Analyst Jason Timpf questions whether the Lakers would be willing to give up the necessary draft capital and players for Nesmith. The Pacers' front office may have to choose between keeping Mathurin or Nesmith, potentially opting for a larger return by trading Nesmith.

The opportunity window is short. Nesmith likely won't be available after this season when Haliburton returns and the Pacers aim to contend. With two years left on his contract before seeking a significant raise, cap concerns could push Indiana to move him. The Lakers, needing a long-term perimeter stopper to pair with Doncic and Austin Reaves – unlikely to find one via draft or free agency – view Nesmith as the best option. Lakers GM Rob Pelinka must act before the February 5 deadline to acquire Nesmith.