Lakers now have cap space next season for a max contract, like Kyrie Irving, after trading Talen Horton-Tucker

After trading Talen Horton-Tucker to the Jazz to land Patrick Beverley, the Lakers have significantly improved their defense and shooting.

Although the trade sacrificed youth by moving off Horton-Tucker, who is just 21 years old, there is a lot to like about the deal for Los Angeles. While this is a move that could likely help them win more games next season, it also gives their front office more flexibility for the future.

Based on the contracts currently on their roster, this move makes them well-positioned for the next off-season in 2023.

Here is why that matters, and what it means for the future of the organization: