After a four game winning streak, the Los Angeles Lakers ran into the hottest team in the NBA in the Memphis Grizzlies. Now, LeBron James and company have to start a new winning streak. On a bright note, players have been getting healthier for the Lakers providing the team with more consistency. Anthony Davis seems to be progressing well. Davis has been on the floor before games working with the coaches and being more active. Once Davis returns, the Lakers will be closer to having their full arsenal. However, they should still be active before the February 10th deadline and there is one name to look out for. Michael Scotto of HoopsHype reports the Lakers have shown interest in Raptors guard Gary Trent Jr.
The Los Angeles Lakers have been doing their due diligence around the league, and expressed interest in Raptors guard Gary Trent Jr., according to league sources. One of several players they’ve checked in on.
Laker fans are familiar with Trent Jr. since his time with the Portland Trail Blazers included a post-season match-up. He is currently averaging 16.4 points for the Toronto Raptors, shooting the three-ball at a decent rate. He is also a capable wing defender, which the Lakers could desperately use.
It’s important to note that Scotto does go on to say that a deal is unlikely. The Lakers would have to part with Talen Horton-Tucker and Kendrick Nunn to make the salaries work. Since we know the Lakers were not willing to let go of THT for Kyle Lowry, this makes this even more unlikely.
Horton-Tucker has had an inconsistent season, but it’s still too early to give up on the prized prospect. If the Lakers are in a position to make a move for a possibly more impactful wing like Jerami Grant, then the conversation could be different. Trent Jr. does not move the needle in that way, which is why the Lakers are better off playing the waiting game.
