With just 17 days left until the NBA trade deadline, the Los Angeles Lakers are turning up the heat on their roster revamp. According to insiders, the Lakers have their sights set on former NBA champion Bruce Brown, who could bring some much-needed grit and depth to their lineup.
The Purple and Gold, currently sixth in the Western Conference with a 22-18 record, have been dominating weaker teams (11-1 against sub-.500 opponents) but struggling against stronger competition (11-17 against teams at .500 or above).
This inconsistency has raised questions about their ability to contend in the playoffs and sustain success once LeBron James eventually calls it a career.
Brown may be the piece they need
General Manager Rob Pelinka has already made moves this season, including the acquisition of Dorian Finney-Smith, but the Lakers are still searching for the perfect piece to complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Enter Bruce Brown-a versatile guard with championship pedigree who the Lakers have coveted since his 2023 title run with the Denver Nuggets.
NBA insider Evan Sidery revealed, “The Lakers are a team to monitor as a trade suitor for Bruce Brown. Since last year, Los Angeles has viewed Brown as an ideal role player alongside LeBron and AD. However, his $23 million salary complicates trade talks with the Raptors.”
The Raptors could be open to a trade
Brown’s journey has been eventful. After signing a two-year, $45 million deal with the Pacers in 2023, he was traded to Toronto as part of the Pascal Siakam deal.
Now, with the Raptors in rebuild mode, they’re reportedly open to moving Brown, especially given his expiring contract and recent knee surgery, which could make him a more affordable option.
For the Lakers, this could be a make-or-break move. Pelinka’s long-term vision for the team hinges on securing talent that can keep them competitive in a post-LeBron era. With the trade deadline looming, all eyes are on whether the Lakers will finally land their man-or if yet another championship window will close before their very eyes.
