While the Lakers continue to consider ways to improve the roster via trades, it doesn’t appear that they will pursue Trae Young.
Given that all Lakers with player options have returned, it seems if Los Angeles wants to shake up their team from last year, it will happen via trade.
The rumor mill is at an all-time high, with players like DeMar DeRozan, Jerami Grant and others connected to the franchise.
One name that’s long been rumored with the Lakers is Trae Young. The All-Star guard is certainly an alluring player to add to any contending team.
However, based on recent reports by Zach Lowe of ESPN, while Young is a desirable player, he’s not likely to end up in a Lakers uniform next season.
The Lakers, too, have shown little recent interest in Young, sources said. That could change if the price drops to L.A.’s liking. But the market for Young is as chilly as it has ever been.
Young’s season was a mixed bag last year for the Atlanta Hawks. He played in just 54 games, shot only 37% from 3-point range, but averaged 25.7 points per game and made his third All-Star team.
His scoring ability would undoubtedly make him part of a big three in Los Angeles, pairing him with LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
However, as the NBA evolves and new CBA tax aprons make it harder and harder to build and keep superteams together, it seems that path is not one the Lakers are interested in attempting.
Still, Young’s talent is undeniable and just because there’s little interest at the moment doesn’t mean there won’t be motivation to execute a deal later.
Vice president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka has mentioned being willing to trade first-round picks for the “right deal,” so Young might still be an option for the Lakers if the Hawks accept certain conditions.
For now, the team will remain as is, with the baby Lakers taking their talents to San Francisco for the California Classic and then to Las Vegas Summer League.
Perhaps while all NBA personnel are hanging out near the strip, Pelinka can talk to some general managers and make a move to improve the team.
If not for Young, then for someone else who can contribute right away and turn the 2024-25 Lakers into Western Conference contenders.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88.
