NBA Trade Rumors: Lakers Not Making a Splash to Bolster Defense at Deadline With 'Fringey' Moves Predicted

The LA Lakers (17-7) have made a bright start to their season, but have struggled defensively. This was highlighted during their 132-119 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday, as they were eliminated from the NBA Cup.

Despite their lack of defensive depth, the Lakers are unlikely to make a major move at the deadline. However, reports suggest they could explore smaller, “fringey” additions to help tighten up their defense.

"REPORT: There's some buzz about the Lakers potentially making a “fringey trade” to try to upgrade their roster, per @ZachLowe_NBA," a handle reported on X (formerly Twitter).

After adding Deandre Ayton and former DPOY Marcus Smart before the season, the Lakers hoped the duo would help shoulder the defensive load. While both have been key contributors, Los Angeles has still struggled defensively, allowing 116.8 ppg, the 19th-best mark in the league.

Although many expected the Lakers to trade for a defensive spearhead, the team does not have the assets to sign a major player. Los Angeles has one future first-round pick to trade (2031 or 2032) while Gabe Vincent and Dalton Knecht remain the only viable trade options.

However, both players carry limited trade value and are unlikely to entice teams to part with proven defensive help. Given the situation, the Lakers are expected to target a “fringe” option who can contribute off the bench and offer positional versatility.

With limited trade capital, the Lakers may also be forced to look inward, potentially expanding their rotation to include rookie Adou Thiero and Jarred Vanderbilt.

Pelicans defender tops Lakers’ wish list, but a key obstacle stands in the way

With the LA Lakers' defensive problems becoming evident, the team is keeping an eye on players who could help them bolster their frontcourt.

Reports indicate that Pelicans forward Herb Jones is at the top of the Lakers' target list. However, New Orleans is hesitant to trade Jones, particularly to Los Angeles, because it has limited trade assets.

Jones would be a perfect fit for the Lakers as the forward is known for his work on the defensive end. Meanwhile, his offensive limitations would allow Doncic, Reaves and LeBron to share the playmaking duties.

Although a trade at this time seems unlikely, the deadline is still months away, and the Lakers have time to construct a package that could be enticing enough to pry Jones away from New Orleans.