
via Imago
Dec 22, 2020; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and forward Anthony Davis (3) wait to enter the game against the LA Clippers in the third quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

via Imago
Dec 22, 2020; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and forward Anthony Davis (3) wait to enter the game against the LA Clippers in the third quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The James Harden trade saga finally came to an end as the Brooklyn Nets pulled off a blockbuster deal to bring in the 31-year-old. This trade can be a big game changer for the Nets. They were already one of the biggest contenders in the Eastern Conference.The Nets now have one of the biggest big threes in James Harden, Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. Now with Harden they cement themselves as one of the biggest challengers for the champions Los Angeles Lakers.

USA Today via Reuters
Dec 30, 2020; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Keldon Johnson (3) looks to pass as Los Angeles Lakers guards Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (1) and Dennis Schroder (17) and forward Anthony Davis (3) defend in the third quarter at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports
The Lakers have been the best team in the NBA this season by a mile. Their new signings Dennis Schroder and Montrezl Harrell have proven to be steals so far.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
As it is, the Lakers have one of the best rosters and despite Nets’ Big Three; they are the favorites to retain the championship. But the champions could use some help in the offensive end and form their own version of a Big Three to cement themselves as the favorites for the title.
We look at three potential trades that the Lakers can make to form their own Big Three.
3. Derrick Rose
The Lakers lack some depth in the team right now, especially in the guard area. Alex Caruso last season proved that he can be a fabulous defensive guard. But he does lack the scoring knack the champions might need.
In such a tight schedule, LeBron James hasn’t been rested in a single game. Given his age, coach Vogel will be eager to provide some much needed rest to the King. Their new signing Dennis Schroder might produce some output on the floor but could benefit from some help.

via Getty
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DECEMBER 09: Derrick Rose #25 of the Detroit Pistons reacts against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half at the Smoothie King Center on December 09, 2019 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
Pistons’ veteran guard Derrick Rose might be the answer for the Lakers. In the nine games he has played, he has averaged 14.9 points, 5.2 assists and 1.9 rebounds per game.
The Lakers can trade a young star in Alex Caruso and a future pick to bring in a veteran star in Derrick Rose. This package will almost match the salary and the Lakers might not have to pay as much luxury tax.
Rose can add more firepower to the side, and Schroder can take on the defensive duties of Caruso. Rose can add to the depth and the big Three of LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Derrick Rose can be a solid competition to the Nets.
2. Zach LaVine
Chicago Bulls’ star Zach LaVine has been in some form this season. He has been one of the best scorers this season. In the 13 games he has played he has averaged 26.9 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game.
LaVine can be the third scorer that LA have been missing till now. The Bulls’ star can take off some pressure off Anthony Davis and LeBron James. LaVine is only 25-year-old and can be a mainstay for the Lakers and can partner alongside Anthony Davis for a long time.

USA Today via Reuters
Jan 8, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine (8) controls the ball against Los Angeles Lakers guard Wesley Matthews (9) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Given the Bulls’ performance in the past three seasons, LaVine might be getting impatient with the lack of success. It might be time for the Lakers to bring in LaVine to solidify their present as well as their future.
The Lakers can create a package comprising Kyle Kuzma, Kentavious Caldwell Pope, and a 2025 first-round draft pick to the Bulls in exchange of LaVine. This will match LaVine’s contract and the Bulls will add some great young players to their side.
1. Bradley Beal
Despite a disappointing start to the Wizards, their star Bradley Beal has proven to be one of the best scorers in the league. In the 10 games he has played he has averaged 34.9 points, 5 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game.
Beal can be the legitimate third star in the Lakers. The 27-year-old is in his prime and can take off as one of the top scorers for the champions. Given that he is still in his prime, he can prove to be the longtime partner for Anthony Davis in the near future.

USA Today via Reuters
Jan 1, 2021; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal (3) celebrates after drawing a foul against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the third quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: David Berding-USA TODAY Sports
The Big Three of Beal, James and Davis can be one of the best trios and unlike the Nets trio there won’t be a big problem in integrating Beal into the system who has proven to be a great off-ball player.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The Lakers can create a package comprising Kyle Kuzma, Kentavious Caldwell Pope, Alex Caruso and a 2025 and 2026 protected first-round draft picks for Beal. This will be great deal for the Wizards who will get some great future players while the Lakers will get a superstar in Beal.
The Lakers face a huge challenge in Brooklyn Nets. With the trade deadline approaching soon, the champions will have to act fast if they want to cement themselves as the favorites for the title.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT