The Los Angeles Lakers do have missing links, meaning that any player available is more than likely to be linked to them. That includes Bradley Beal of the Washington Wizards, one of the players that are reportedly available for trade.
As far as the Lakers are concerned, Beal could be a great addition to help LeBron James and company. But a trade involving the 25-year-old guard will come at a price. It may take more than one player to consummate the transaction, meaning suggestions of a straight-up trade involving Brandon Ingram may not gain ground, the Bleacher Report said.
The Lakers have invested heftily on youth, a practice they have done the past years. At present, they do have Ingram, Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, and Josh Hart, all of whom have had their moments. Being young, it also hardly comes as a surprise that these guys lack the composure and proper decision-making, factors that have contributed to the erratic run of Los Angeles.
Adding Beal should add some maturity although some youngsters may have to go. The Wizards are likely to ask for more, meaning the Lakers will have to add more players to the mix. It could be anyone among Ingram, Kuzma, Ball, and Hart - if not all, Silver Screen and Roll said.
Should that be the case, expect the Lakers to take their time before biting. Beal may be a good addition but not at the expense of wiping out the younger clan who have proven they have a future in the NBA.
Another scenario could be to see the Lakers asking for more assets alongside Beal. This includes adding more players (superstars or bench players), rights to future draft picks or even cash considerations. As one can see, this is a trade deal that may take some time.
Aside from the Lakers, other teams are expected to inquire about Beal. Aside from the shooting guard, also available for trade are John Wall, Otto Porter and Kelly Oubre - much of which was discussed in a previous post.
The Charlotte Hornets have also expressed interest in Beal although it makes little sense. Kemba Walker is having a hell of a year so adding another guard in the rotation could prove detrimental to the charges of James Borrego.
So far, it has yet to be known which other teams would be (seriously) interested in Beal. The Wizards are trying to address their struggles although they have started to get back on the winning track. Regardless, expect trade speculations on Beal, Wall, Porter, and Oubre to continue moving forward.
