This is my ideal trade for the Lakers. It helps fill some of the holes we currently have as a team. Yes, I’m aware that the Mathurin trade would be a tough one and most likely won’t happen, but we might be able to get him by adding Knecht to the deal. First, let’s look at the depth of this team.

Depth Chart

PG: Luka Dončić / Marcus Smart / Bronny James SG: Austin Reaves / Bennedict Mathurin SF: Andrew Wiggins / Jake LaRavia / Haywood Highsmith PF: LeBron James / Jarred Vanderbilt C: Jaxson Hayes / Day’Ron Sharpe TW: NSJ / Chris Manon / Drew Timme

First, I’d sign NSJ to a standard contract and leave the second roster spot open, possibly for a buyout player. I’d give Kobe Bufkin a two-way deal and let him play some games. I know Bufkin has been balling in the G League, but NSJ has already shown he can compete at the NBA level, so I’d love to watch them battle for that spot. Alternatively, the Lakers could sign both to standard contracts.

NETS As much as I love Adou, I think the Nets would have interest in him. We don’t know the exact trade packages for MPJ or Cam Thomas, but getting younger still seems to be their main focus. Maxi Kleber’s contract is a big reason I think they would be interested, since they could flip him later in another trade.

PACERS The Pacers need a center, and they’ve been interested in Ayton for a while now. Personally, I think Zubac would be the best option for them, but there’s a lot of competition for him.

I think this trade is unlikely to go through since Mathurin is a great player and the Pacers really value him. Adding Knecht to the deal might help push it through.

HEAT A Gabe Vincent and Heat reunion makes sense. I think he fits what the Heat are doing right now, and Hachimura would benefit greatly from playing under a great coach like Spoelstra. Hachimura is a really good player man he just needs the right system and coaching.

The Heat could make some noise in the playoffs, and by acquiring both players, they could either use them in a future star trade or let contracts expire and pursue a star in free agency.