Trade season is heating up in the NBA, and the Los Angeles Lakers could soon make their first big move of the offseason. According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, the Indiana Pacers, New Orleans Pelicans, and Sacramento Kings are actively seeking veteran help in the backcourt — a development that could work perfectly in the Lakers’ favor.
The Lakers appear eager to move on from point guard Gabe Vincent, whose $11.5 million contract and limited impact make him a prime trade candidate. With reports linking Los Angeles to free agent guard De’Anthony Melton, it’s clear the team is already planning for life without Vincent.
For the Lakers, unloading Vincent’s salary would be a huge win, freeing up cap space and allowing the front office to pursue upgrades elsewhere. Meanwhile, Indiana, New Orleans, or Sacramento could use Vincent’s shooting off the bench, making them ideal trade partners.
If any of these teams are willing to send assets back in a deal, Lakers GM Rob Pelinka should act quickly. Keeping Vincent on the roster into training camp would represent a missed opportunity for a team with championship aspirations.
Expect the Lakers to stay aggressive in the coming days, as the front office looks to reshape the roster ahead of next season.