Why would Lakers do this?

The Lakers need a strong defensive player who is still able to play good on the offensive side. Jones is the perfect 3 and D fit for them, a piece they need if the wont to be a contender. Giving up Rui + Their 2031 Pick (Top 10 Prot.) will be worth that step + the pick has a protection if something goes wrong in the future.

New starting 5: Luka | Reaves | Jones | LeBron | Ayton

New Bench Linep: Smart/Vincent| Knecht | LaRavia | Vanderbuilt | Hayes/Jordan

Why would Pels do this?

Pelicans are in tanking mode and need picks to rebuild after Zion. Shipping him and Jones sets a clear direction for the franchise and you get a few young players, picks and a good player with a 1 year contract to open books this summer.

New starting 5: Murray (if healthy) | Poole | Murphy | Rui | Queen

New bench lineup: PG and SG: Fears/Alvarado/Hawkins | Green | PF and C: Matković/Williams/Looney

Why would Hornets do this?

The Melo era in Charlotte is not working out as wished till now. He is hurt often and sometimes not even playing winning basketball giving him a 2. Star to the Knueppel/Melo/Miller core could bring something new to the squad. Yes, they both have a big injury history, but with good work from the Hornets and the Hornets medical stuff they can be a under underestimated playoff fear and a really strong fear in a few years, if they get a good Center.

New starting 5: Melo | Knueppel | Miller | Zion | Ryan Calculator

New bench Lineup: Man | Sexton | Pat/McNeeley | Bridges | Diabate

NOTE: Trade works just need to wait until min. 25 Jan