Anthony Davis’ recent demand for a center on the Lakers roster definitely caught some eyes but honestly, it’s not exactly breaking news. AD’s been asking for a while, and the Lakers have already been linked to a handful of centers as the trade deadline nears. Still, if you’re hoping for Jakob Poeltl from Toronto or Nikola Vucevic from Chicago to make their way to LA, don’t hold your breath.

Marc Stein, a longtime NBA insider, dropped in his latest substack post that while the LA side is actively hunting for a big man, neither Poeltl nor Vucevic seems likely to join the squad. Meanwhile, “oft-suggested Lakers target Walter Kessler of the Utah Jazz is believed to as close to unavailable.” So, looks like the Lakers have some other plans in mind. And the other plans include a Ball brother!

When the Bulls kicked off their 2024-25 campaign in late October, Lonzo Ball finally made his long-awaited return. The first pro athlete to return from a double cartilage transplant. The 27-year-old guard has been averaging 6.6 points, 3.6 assists and 3.4 rebounds this season. And Rob Pelinka could get him back to Los Angeles for a reunion. The Bulls have had trade talks with the Lakers and other teams, all showing interest in Lonzo, according to Evan Sidery.

Most importantly, Chicago seems ready to move on from his $21.3 million expiring contract out of the $80 million signed in 2021, but they’re looking for a pretty simple return—second-round draft picks. Which provides a lot of clarity for Pelinka as to what their ask is.

Ball hasn’t played in too many back-to-backs this season, and he hasn’t hit the 30-minute mark in a game yet. But here’s the thing—his minutes have been creeping up as the season moves forward. It’s something to keep an eye on as his recovery continues.

And for second-round draft capital? It doesn’t seem like too much. Meanwhile, there are also ‘proposed’ rumors of getting a superstar from the San Antonio Spurs.

The Lakers might want the Point God and the GOAT to share the court

The Lakers could reportedly eye Chris Paul and Zach Collins from the Spurs, according to Eddie Bitar of Fadeaway World. The potential trade would see LA offer Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Jalen Hood-Schifino in return. This move could be exactly what the Lakers need to boost their season.

At 39, Paul is still playing at a high level, showing us all why he’s a legend. Week after week, he continues to prove why he’s one of the best. As Bitar puts it, “Adding the 5-time NBA All-star to the Los Angeles Lakers gives the team exactly what they need: a seasoned leader and one of the best playmakers in NBA history.” Imagine LeBron James being able to play off the ball more, preserving his energy for those clutch moments. And don’t forget about Anthony Davis—Paul’s playmaking would help Davis score easily in the paint.

But that’s not all—the Lakers could also get Zach Collins, a kind of player they’ve been missing ever since losing Jarred Vanderbilt for most of the season. Bitar points out, “With Zach Collins, the Lakers gain a two-way presence they’ve been missing, especially after losing Jarred Vanderbilt for most of the season.” Collins would fill the defensive gap and add versatility to the team.

Of course, trading Rui Hachimura would sting, but the Lakers might have to make that sacrifice if they want to improve. Would it be worth it? Only time will tell, but this deal could shift the JJ Redick-led side’s trajectory this season.