LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 28: A moment of silence is observed in honor of Philip "Flip" Saunders' passing before the game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves at Staples Center on October 28, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and condition of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Lakers have struggled mightily since LeBron James was injured at the end of 2018.
Having won only five games since he was injured, the Lakers might want to make a trade to get some reinforcements.
While there could be several big-name options available for Los Angeles, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith has an idea of who they should try and get.
On Wednesday’s edition of First Take, Smith stated that, if given the choice between Memphis Grizzlies veterans Marc Gasol and Mike Conley, Jr., the Lakers should go with Conley.
Smith explained that the 31-year-old Conley has demonstrated consistency in his 12 years with Memphis, and would be a good fit for the Lakers.
“He’s not a superstar but he’s a damn good player. He’s consistent, he’s professional, he can hit perimeter shots… he’s averaging 20 (points) and six (assists)…”
The full segment:
Smith also suggested that the Lakers get rid of some of their less-experienced players at the point guard position, and make room for Conley to play with LeBron James, Kyle Kuzma, and Josh Hart. Interestingly, he didn’t name former No. 2 picks Lonzo Ball or Brandon Ingram as pieces to build around.
After missing most of last season due to injury, Conley has bounced back well this year, and is averaging 19.8 points and 6.1 assists per game. As the Grizzlies consider playing for NBA Draft positioning the rest of the year, it could make sense to deal the franchise cornerstone guard, though.
The NBA trade deadline is February 7.