The Los Angeles Lakers look in good shape this season, with JJ Redick at the helm. With his coaching prowess, Redick has multiplied the output of most players. They lie 6th in the Western Conference table with LeBron James scoring three consecutive triple-doubles. Yet, they need help, as history suggests, the Lakers are injury-prone. Moreover, they are not getting the valuable minutes from D’Angelo Russell who averages 12.5 points this season.

There are talks about Trae Young joining the Lakers, which could very likely make them title contenders. Chances of that happening? Slim. Their cap space doesn’t paint a pretty picture for the team to make trades. Aiming to strengthen their roster, they may find a path to acquire new talent.

The Los Angeles Lakers stay below the second apron with a mere $30,000 in between them. The second apron limit in the NBA amounts to $188.9 million. It means they can’t amass the contracts of Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell if those post-trade salaries go over the second apron. It’s not a situation they would want to be in. Thus, the Lakers’ plans of Reaves, Jarred Vanderbilt, Russell, and a 2031 first-round pick for Trae Young seem highly unlikely.

To increase their flexibility below the second apron, the Lakers have the option to include cash and one of their four second-round picks in Christian Wood’s contract. The big man underwent surgery on his left knee in September, and his $3 million contract expires soon. By doing that, the Lakers can get a player to get their trades going.

Well, apart from the monetary side of things, the Lakers are obliged to give the 2025 first-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks while the 2027 top-4-protected picks will go to the Utah Jazz. However, they can trade three first picks of 2029, 2030, or 2031. Moreover, trading back-to-back seasons is a no-go. So, who can the Lakers trade?

Possible players for the Los Angeles Lakers to bolster the squad

With the puzzle the Lakers are in regarding the cap space and second apron limit, there are fresh rumors that Robert Williams or Jonas Valančiūnas can sign for the team. Either can play center for the Lakers and ease the load on Anthony Davis.

A deal for Valančiūnas was very much on the cards, but the Lakers couldn’t sign him up after having no space in the roster. They could very much go in for a trade attempt and get him on board.

On the other hand, Robert Williams III remains another player on the radar. The front-court combination of Davis and Williams could provide excellent defensive stability for the Lakers and give them great size and depth. Yes, there are health concerns related to Williams, but under AD, the Portland Trail Blazers man could get crucial for the Lakers. Under his mentorship, the player can blossom into something special.

The Lakers would need another player to solidify their push for a 5th NBA title for LeBron James. Hopefully, they get the right pieces to support Bron and go for another championship.