ESPN update:Best Players The Lakers Can Land In A Package Around Jalen Hood-Schifino
As the Los Angeles Lakers look to strengthen their roster for another championship run, one potential trade piece they could use is Jalen Hood-Schifino. The rookie guard has shown flashes of promise but may not yet have a clear path to consistent minutes on the Lakers’ deep roster. His inclusion in a trade package could bring in valuable assets to bolster the team’s championship aspirations. Here are some of the best players the Lakers could target in a trade involving Hood-Schifino:
1. OG Anunoby (Toronto Raptors)
OG Anunoby is one of the most highly sought-after wings in the NBA due to his elite defense and improving offense. The Raptors could look to cash in on Anunoby’s value as he enters the final year of his contract, and the Lakers could offer a mix of Hood-Schifino, future picks, and salary filler. Anunoby’s versatility as a defender and ability to knock down threes would make him an excellent fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.2. Buddy Hield (Indiana Pacers)
The Lakers have struggled with three-point shooting in recent seasons, and Buddy Hield is one of the NBA’s premier shooters. A deal centered around Hood-Schifino and some draft capital could help the Pacers further their rebuilding efforts, while the Lakers get a reliable floor-spacer to complement their stars. Hield’s ability to stretch the floor would be a valuable asset in closing games for the Lakers.
3. Myles Turner (Indiana Pacers
)
In a similar vein, Myles Turner could be a great fit for the Lakers as a rim protector and floor-spacing big man. Turner has long been rumored as a trade target for the Lakers, and pairing him with Anthony Davis would give the team an elite defensive frontcourt. A package with Hood-Schifino could help the Pacers further their rebuild while addressing a Lakers need for a reliable center.
4. DeMar DeRozan (Chicago Bulls)
DeMar DeRozan brings scoring, playmaking, and experience, and his mid-range game would complement the Lakers’ style of play. The Lakers would need to offer a significant package that could include Hood-Schifino, draft picks, and potentially a salary-matching contract. DeRozan would provide immediate scoring help and add another proven leader to the team.
5. Malcolm Brogdon (Boston Celtics)
The Lakers could target Brogdon as a backup point guard or secondary ball handler. The Celtics have depth at guard, and Brogdon, with his shooting and playmaking, could help provide the Lakers with more stability in their backcourt. A deal involving Hood-Schifino and perhaps a pick could be appealing to Boston.
Each of these players would help the Lakers address key needs while maintaining their championship window. While Jalen Hood-Schifino may not be the centerpiece of the package, his inclusion would make the Lakers’ offer more enticing to teams looking for youth and potential.
