Felton has underachieved with the Portland Trail Blazers this season, but is just one year removed from averaging 17 points and nine assists with the fast-paced New York Knicks. He's also one of the few options without Pau Gasol or Andrew Bynum as a piece of the potential deal.
Chris Haynes of CSNNW.com reports talks between the two sides are ongoing:
A league source has informed CSNNW.com that the Los Angeles Lakers and the Portland Trail Blazers have had “exploratory talks” regarding Trail Blazers' guard Raymond Felton.
According to the source, talks have been ongoing for weeks and it is likely to involve Lakers' guard Steve Blake in the deal.
Assuming no other major trade chips are involved, that would seem like a pretty fair offer for the Lakers. Blake and Derek Fisher haven't been able to solidify the point, and Fisher holds no value on the trade market.
Felton has never appeared to find a comfort zone with Portland. He's having the worst shooting season of his career by far, including his 25 percent mark from beyond the arc, and the struggles have carried throughout the rest of his game.
A move to Los Angeles could be exactly what he needs to turn things around. It certainly wouldn't hurt after what he's endured so far.
There would be far less pressure on him to play alongside a handful of talented teammates, led by Kobe Bryant. Not to mention all of those offensive threats would lead to him getting more open shots, which should improve his efficiency.
Most important, Felton would give the Lakers a point guard opposing defenses must respect. Fisher and Blake haven't produced at a high enough level, ...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
