A proposed four-team trade could provide the Lakers with two crucial players to enhance their playoff chances. The Lakers’ offseason has been a mix of minor successes and significant disappointments. After failing to secure any major free agents, they’re set to start the new season with nearly the same roster that was eliminated in the first round last year. Although they’ve kept their core group, there’s still a sense that they lack the right components to be true contenders. This potential trade could be the game-changer they need, bringing Bruce Brown and Cole Anthony into the mix to add versatility and depth. With these additions, the Lakers could finally achieve the balance necessary for a deep postseason run. Additionally, this trade would provide notable benefits for the Pelicans, Magic, and Raptors, making it a mutually advantageous deal.
Proposed Trade:
Lakers Receive: Bruce Brown, Cole Anthony, 2025 First-Round Pick (from Magic)
Pelicans Receive: Wendell Carter Jr., Max Lewis, 2026 First-Round Pick (from Raptors via Pacers), 2028 First-Round Pick (from Raptors)
Magic Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Jaxson Hayes
Raptors Receive: Herb Jones, Jose Alvarado
Lakers Get the Right Mix of Defense and Playmaking
The Lakers’ offseason hasn’t been particularly dramatic, but they’re working behind the scenes to make improvements. After their early playoff exit last season, it’s evident they need more support beyond LeBron and AD. One trade scenario making the rounds involves acquiring Bruce Brown from the Raptors and Cole Anthony from the Magic. These additions could provide the Lakers with the defensive toughness and playmaking they need.
Bruce Brown is a desirable asset for any contender, and it’s no surprise that teams are interested in him. Last season, he averaged 10.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game, but his value extends beyond stats. Brown’s defensive versatility—capable of guarding multiple positions—would be a significant boost for the Lakers. He could play a similar role to Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, contributing defensively and offensively when needed. His championship experience from the Nuggets in 2023 would also be valuable for the Lakers’ quest for a deep playoff run.
Cole Anthony, who averaged 11.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.9 assists last season, offers a different skill set compared to D’Angelo Russell. Unlike Russell, who thrives with the ball in his hands, Anthony is a pure playmaker who makes smart decisions and doesn’t need to dominate possession. This could improve the Lakers’ offensive flow, complementing LeBron and AD while reducing ball-stopping.
Adding Brown and Anthony could be the key to transforming the Lakers from a strong team on paper to a genuine playoff contender. Their contributions would address the gaps from last season and enhance the team’s chances for a deeper postseason run.
Pelicans Secure Their Center of the Future
The Pelicans have struggled to fill their center position this offseason, especially with Jonas Valanciunas moving to the Wizards. Despite acquiring Daniel Theis and rookie Yvess Missi, they still need a reliable center to remain competitive in the West. Wendell Carter Jr. from Orlando could be the upgrade they need in the paint.
Carter Jr. would be a great fit alongside a strong Pelicans lineup featuring Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, Brandon Ingram, and Zion Williamson. He’s not just a traditional big man; his versatility allows him to score, rebound, and defend effectively. Last season, Carter Jr. averaged 11.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. His ability to stretch the floor and defend would complement Zion perfectly, providing a dynamic frontcourt pairing.
The Magic have an abundance of big men, including Mo Wagner, Goga Bitadze, and Paolo Banchero. With so many options, moving Carter Jr. to New Orleans makes sense and helps alleviate the logjam in Orlando. This trade would benefit both teams: the Pelicans get a solid center and future picks, while the Magic can focus on developing their other young bigs.
For the Pelicans, Carter Jr. would anchor their defense and complement Zion’s game. With perimeter scoring from Ingram and McCollum, Carter Jr. can concentrate on defense and rebounding, completing the Pelicans’ roster. This trade could be a significant step forward for New Orleans, providing a balanced team ready to make a strong impact in the West.
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