The Los Angeles Lakers continue to get linked to trade rumors as the offseason continues following a unimpressive free agency period and rough summer league stint. With players like Julius Randle, D'Angelo Russell and Jordan Clarkson failing to impress in summer league play, the Lakers are being linked to trade deals for help on the roster. Looking to avoid another disappointing year, will Los Angeles pull one more move off before the season begins?
According to Kevin Pelton of ESPN.com, Markieff Morris remains an option for the Lakers. With the Phoenix Suns potentially aiming to trade their disgruntled power forward, the Lakers could use the young star for help with Randle and Brandon Bass. However, the deal would likely require Los Angeles to give up Nick Young, something they cannot afford to do.
While trade rumors have been swirling around Young's head for the better part of the offseason thanks to his high-priced contract, a lack of depth will force the guard to return. According to the Los Angeles Times, the Lakers are no longer shopping Young, but that does not mean he has a spot in the starting rotation. The Lakers added Lou Williams in the offseason which should take pressure off Young along with Russell and Clarkson. With question marks at the point guard position, Young is needed either as a starter or off the bench.
Young could be expendable to the Lakers if certain players return improved this season. If Clarkson and Russell are able to show strides since summer league along with Williams, Brandon Bass and Roy Hibbert, then Young will be hard pressed to find minutes. His contract will be the only thing that saves him if his play begins to sputter.
The Lakers look more set to remain put in terms of trades, but they could seek help mid-season especially if the point guard play begins to sink. According to the Boston Globe, Ricky Rubio could be available by mid-season if the Minnesota Timberwolves favor Tyus Jones. Ian Begley of ESPN reports Jose Calderon could be available for the taking. The Phoenix Suns could explore trades for Eric Bledsoe if Brandon Knight excels while the Detroit Pistons could pick Reggie Jackson over Brandon Jennings. Los Angeles will have options and if they can get a deal, Young is not as safe as he might think.
