The Los Angeles Lakers look a lot different, roster-wise, than they did five days ago, thanks to three deals made in the hours leading up to Thursday’s NBA trade deadline.
While they lost rotation players Russell Westbrook, Patrick Beverley and Thomas Bryant, they have gained four rotation players who should fit in well: D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, Malik Beasley and Mo Bamba.
In addition, Los Angeles received Davon Reed in the Bryant trade. Reed is a 6-foot-5 guard with a 7-foot wingspan. If given a chance, he could be a 3-and-D player who could contribute in spot duty.
The first job for head coach Darvin Ham, besides getting wins in bunches, is to integrate all these new players and have them build chemistry with their new teammates.
But LeBron James’ left foot soreness will complicate those efforts. He missed the team’s last two games and is reportedly likely to miss the Lakers’ Monday contest versus the Portland Trail Blazers.
Lisa Salters just reported on ABC that LeBron is likely to return for the #Lakers against the Pelicans on Wednesday. L.A. plays Portland on Monday.
— Anthony Gharib (@GharibSports) February 12, 2023
The good news is the team has reported that imaging has shown nothing clinically significant on James’ troublesome foot.
If Saturday’s win over the Golden State Warriors was any sign, perhaps the Lakers will be eminently capable of getting another victory in Oregon on Monday even without their franchise player.
