No one expected this team to be much better than its current 11-44 record, so nothing done will be out of panic. This isn't a disappointing squad now trying to sell off any asset it has, nor is it a potential contender looking for a missing piece. Still, you never know what will happen at the trade deadline.
Fans certainly had quite a scare earlier in the year when Brian Geltzeiler of HoopsCritic reported that D'Angelo Russell was being made available:
You can rest easy, though, because Dan Woike of the Orange County Register reported that while none of Russell, Jordan Clarkson, Julius Randle and Larry Nance Jr. are technically untouchable, they won't likely be dealt before Thursday's deadline.
Meanwhile, Woike discussed a few players who have a much better chance of being traded this week:
Brandon Bass could be a nice addition to a team looking for a competent offensive big man, and Lou Williams, who has two years left on his deal after this season, could get a relatively nice return.
And if you want Nick Young and the remaining years and dollars on his deal, he certainly can be had.
This report matches ESPN.com's Marc Stein explaining a few weeks ago that the Lakers were trying to get rid of their quartet of veterans, including Roy Hibbert. The center was noted as having the only expiring contract of the group, although it might be a tough task convincing someone to take on the remainder of his deal.
Bobby Marks of The Vertical even explained that Hibbert could be a buyout candidate after the deadline. The Lakers will certainly take calls for the former All-Star, but they shouldn't expect the phone to be ringing all that much.
On the other hand, there might be a few more takers for Young on the open...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
