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Saturday’s loss to Phoenix laid bare a recurring problem for the Los Angeles Lakers: their defense is inconsistent and vulnerable. The Suns dismantled Los Angeles 132-108, leaving fans and front-office planners focused on defensive reinforcements as the trade deadline approaches.
Defensive lapses become impossible to ignore
The Lakers entered the contest ranked 23rd in points allowed. Phoenix took full advantage, building a commanding lead early and never looking back.
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LeBron James paced the Lakers with 23 points but sat out the fourth quarter as the game slipped away. The final margin underscored a trend that has lingered through much of the season.
Coach J.J. Redick has openly discussed the issue. After a recent loss in the NBA Cup, Redick pointed to trouble defending the initial ball handler and stopping attacks into the paint. Those same breakdowns reappeared against the Suns.
Why Los Angeles is targeting versatile defenders
Narrowing defensive gaps is now a top priority for the Lakers. Team sources and reporting indicate the front office is searching for perimeter wings who can guard multiple positions and hit open threes.
- Switchability: The ability to defend guards and forwards on the same possession.
- Perimeter deterrence: Contesting drives and limiting kick-outs to shooters.
- 3-and-D shooting: Reliable spacing to complement the Lakers’ scorers.
With the NBA trade deadline set for Feb. 5, Los Angeles faces tough choices about which assets to part with for immediate help.
Players the Lakers are reportedly eyeing
Reporting from The Athletic’s Dan Woike lists several wing defenders on the Lakers’ shortlist. Each comes with distinct strengths and trade complications.
Herb Jones (New Orleans)
- Strengths: Elite perimeter defense, high basketball IQ, physical on-ball pressure.
- Challenge: New Orleans values him highly and may demand a steep return.
- Fit for L.A.: Would immediately upgrade contesting and help safeguard pick-and-roll coverages.
Trey Murphy III (New Orleans)
- Strengths: Floor spacing and length that can bother shooters and cutters.
- Challenge: Also considered untouchable by the Pelicans unless the price is right.
Keon Ellis (Sacramento)
- Strengths: Disruptive perimeter defender with quick hands.
- Limitations: Ball-handling is limited and he may struggle switching onto longer forwards.
- Role: A role-player who could provide immediate energy on the wings.
Other names linked to the Lakers
- Derrick Jones Jr. (Clippers): Athletic wing capable of rim protection and streaky shooting.
- Terrance Mann (Nets): Strong defender with playoff experience and reliable two-way play.
- Andrew Wiggins (Heat): Veteran length and previous success guarding top scorers.
Trade logistics and what L.A. might give up
Acquiring an established 3-and-D wing will cost assets. The Lakers must weigh draft capital, young players, or expiring contracts against immediate defensive gains.
- Packages could include pick swaps or young rotation players.
- Salary matching and roster flexibility figure heavily into trade feasibility.
- Timing matters: With Feb. 5 approaching, teams will weigh short-term playoff boosts versus long-term flexibility.
How a new wing could change the Lakers’ outlook
Adding a high-level perimeter defender would help in several ways:
- Improve containment on ball handlers and reduce easy paint opportunities.
- Allow for more aggressive rotations without exposing the rim.
- Give LeBron and the offense cleaner possessions in the postseason.
Front-office moves over the next few weeks will signal whether Los Angeles prioritizes immediate title contention or balance with future planning.
