Insider Reveals Lakers Top 3 Trade And Buyout Targets

The Los Angeles Lakers will probably make a move in the next few weeks. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka will probably pick some of his current targets and bring the players to LA. According to one insider, the Lakers have the perfect trade and buyout targets.

Dave McMenamin from ESPN said the Lakers should go after Andre Drummond, JJ Redick, and P.J. Tucker. The insider provided a brief explanation of Pelinka’s next move.

“Well, I’ll start by saying that based on the Lakers’ roster construction and where they’re going to be at salary cap wise, it’s going to be most likely buyout candidates over trade targets for the Lakers,” McMenamin explained. “Because if they were to do away with some of their young talent in order to pursue a trade, they’re going to be in a tough situation this summer moving forward.”

Lakers front office have more viable trade and buyout targets

LA may not trade for Drummond as his salary goes as high as $28 million. But, they will sure try to snatch him if he receives  buyout from the Cavaliers.

“Let’s start with three names: Andre Drummond of the Cleveland Cavaliers whose been parked on the bench for about a month now as they try to pursue trade targets,” McMenamin continued. “I’m hearing that the Cavs are receiving interest in him, but because he has such a high salary number, it’s going to probably be tough for them. Perhaps need a three-team scenario in order to get that trade. Otherwise, it would be a buyout.”

Shams Charania from The Athletic reported that the Lakers and Nets are the “top suitors” for the Cavs veteran if he receives his buyout. Drummond averages 17.5 points, 13.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.2 blocks in 25 games for the team this season.

According to Charania, Cleveland is steadfast about finding a trade partner for the center. The Nets may offer Drummont a multiyear deal as a free agent through the buyout.

LA needs a big man, but their biggest need is shooting. Redick is part of many rumors, too. He is shooting 36 percent from three, but is one of the real pure shooters in the NBA. Redick would like to win his ring. He missed the playoffs for the first time last year.

Tucker is the third player on the list, and several NBA teams have shown interest in getting him.

“The other guy, P.J. Tucker, who was such a vital piece on those Houston Rockets teams that knocked on the door of making the finals and upsetting the Golden State Warriors,” McMenamin said. “Toughness, grit, corner three-point shooting, playoff experience, and there’s going to be a bunch of suitors for him as well. There already are, the Rockets are receiving a lot of interest. Those are the names I would start with at the top of the Lakers’ list.”