Lakers Advised To Take ‘Risk’, Trade For Disgruntled Former MVP

The Los Angeles Lakers beat the Brooklyn Nets in the preseason and this is just a big reminder for the rest of the NBA. LeBron James and his teammates are ready to win, but some analysts believe the Lakers could really do an effort and sign a former MVP.

Enter James Harden.

The Lakers have been linked to several players, but Harden’s name was never called. No one ever thought that the Lakers could show any interest in Harden. Andy Bailey from Bleacher Report was among the first to mention Harden. The Philadelphia 76ers veteran may seem like a good option for the Lakers as he got skills and experience.

“Assuming the Lakers hit a point where they actually feel they need a jolt, perhaps that same package would interest the 76ers,” Bailey wrote on October 11. “while lineups with Harden, Austin Reaves and LeBron could be highly susceptible to the “too many cooks” issue, maybe James is the kind of alpha personality Harden has always needed to survive a deep playoff run.

“From just about the moment the Los Angeles Lakers signed D’Angelo Russell to his new two-year, $36 million contract, it felt like he would find his way into some trade rumors. The deal is movable, and when combined with Rui Hachimura’s salary and maybe a draft asset, it might be able to fetch L.A. another star.”

Lakers could use the former MVP

It is a really bold suggestion and yes, it comes at a high price. So, according to Bailey, the Lakers could try and get Harden, but they will have to give up on D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, and a 2029 first-rounder.

Harden has experience, but he also has temper. He could help the Lakers solve their shooting issues, but he has made too many stops in the NBA.

James Harden came to camp ready to work 🫡 pic.twitter.com/bljseAAd6L

— Pat Bev Pod (@PatBevPod) October 11, 2023

This may seem like a decent suggestion for the purple and gold. However, the front office will have to think twice before making such a risky move. Maybe Rob Pelinka will wait and see what happens with his current team before he takes a risk.