The recent trade moves by the Lakers have shaken up the entire league. Starting with Russell's trade to the Nets in exchange for Finney-Smith and Milton, the Lakers' trade story has become increasingly interesting. Now, they have set their sights on Valanciunas from the Wizards, making things even more exciting.
This time, the Lakers' trade actions seem unconventional. They first sent Russell away in exchange for two practical players, an operation that caught many fans off guard.
In recent games, Finney-Smith and Milton's performances have indeed brought new vitality to the team, especially their contributions on the defensive end have made the coaching staff very satisfied.
The Lakers' management's move is actually quite interesting. They did not immediately pursue big-name stars but instead focused on solidifying the team's overall strength.
The team's atmosphere is now significantly better than before. The two new players have gelled well with their teammates, making the Lakers' rotation lineup more flexible.
However, the Lakers are clearly not content to stop here. They are brewing a bigger trade, this time targeting Valanciunas of the Wizards.
The Wizards are also interested in this trade, but they require at least one first-round draft pick, which caused the negotiations to stall temporarily.
The Lakers' management seems to place great importance on Valanciunas. Even though the negotiations were temporarily put on hold, they did not give up on continuing communication.
Recent news indicates that both sides have resumed contact, suggesting that the Lakers are really keen on finalizing this trade.
Vincent's recent performance has indeed been eye-catching. He has been particularly accurate with his three-point shots, and his contributions from the bench are growing.
Previously, fans had significant opinions about Vincent, mainly because he was often injured and his state was always unstable.
But the current Vincent is a completely different person. His shot selection is more reasonable, and his decision-making on the court is more mature.
The Lakers can take advantage of Vincent's high value at present and use him as an important bargaining chip in the trade for Valanciunas.
In recent games, Vincent suddenly had no playing time, a situation similar to Russell's before the trade.
Such arrangements by the team are likely to protect the trade asset and avoid unexpected situations that could affect the progress of the trade.
Vincent's progress has indeed brought more trading possibilities to the Lakers. His current performance is enough to impress other teams.
For the Lakers, Vincent's value is no longer just that of a substitute player but a good trading asset.
Valanciunas is a versatile interior player whose arrival can effectively address the Lakers' depth issues in the paint.
He can not only attack in the low post but also has a wide shooting range, characteristics that fit well with modern basketball playstyles.
If the Lakers can acquire Valanciunas, they will have more options tactically, especially on the offensive end.
His rebounding ability is also outstanding, which can help the Lakers gain an advantage in the battle for dominance in the paint.
The current issue is whether the trade conditions can be agreed upon, as first-round draft picks are also crucial for the Lakers.
However, judging from the current situation, the Lakers seem prepared to make certain sacrifices.
If this trade can be completed, it will significantly enhance the Lakers' competitiveness in the playoffs.
Valanciunas' arrival can also bring more tactical changes to the team, making them harder to defend against.
If this trade ultimately goes through, the Lakers' overall strength will see a noticeable increase, especially in terms of depth in the paint.
The team's rotation lineup will become more reasonable, giving the coaching staff more choices when arranging the lineup.
Although some future draft picks may need to be sacrificed, for the current Lakers, timely reinforcement is more important.
The Lakers' goal for this season is clear: to perform better in the playoffs.
A series of operations by the management show their determination to achieve something this season.
Judging from the current progress of the trade, the Lakers are likely to complete this trade before the trade deadline.
The team's strength structure will become more complete, giving them a greater advantage in the playoff competition.
These changes indicate that the Lakers are moving in the right direction, and the team's future is full of hope.