NOTE: This article is a PREDICTION and not a REPORT
The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in an awkward position. With a 25-18 record, they are strong enough to avoid the play-in tournament but still far from establishing themselves as serious contenders in a Western Conference led by the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder. LeBron James and Anthony Davis have openly called for reinforcements, acknowledging that the current roster lacks the firepower needed for a legitimate championship run.
Ranking 17th in scoring (111.5 PPG) and 14th in offensive efficiency (114.1), the Lakers have struggled to maintain consistency on offense, particularly in half-court situations. The team urgently needs better shooting and additional playmaking, prompting the front office to explore potential moves ahead of the February 6 trade deadline.
MORE NBA TRADE DEADLINE OPTIONS FOR THE LAKERS:
On the other hand, the San Antonio Spurs are fully committed to a rebuild centered around Victor Wembanyama, a generational talent. Chris Paul, who is earning $10.5 million this season and set to become a free agent, continues to perform as a skilled floor general with averages of 9.5 PPG, 8.2 APG, and 1.3 SPG. However, at 39 years old, Paul does not fit into the Spurs’ long-term plans.
Trading Paul for younger assets would provide the Spurs with additional resources to support Wembanyama’s development while creating more opportunities for their emerging players. Here’s an intriguing trade proposal that sends Paul to the Lakers and examines its potential impact on all sides.
Potential Trade IdeaÂ
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Chris Paul, Zach Collins
San Antonio Spurs Receive: Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino
The Los Angeles Lakers strengthen their roster by adding Chris Paul, providing them with a seasoned leader and one of the greatest playmakers in NBA history. Despite nearing 40, Paul continues to showcase his precision as a floor general, averaging 9.5 points, 8.2 assists, and 1.3 steals per game during the 2024-25 season.
Paul’s impressive 36.4% shooting from beyond the arc directly addresses the Lakers’ need for improved spacing and smarter decision-making. His high basketball IQ and ability to control the game’s tempo become critical assets, especially during high-stakes playoff moments, where the team often struggles in half-court execution.
At 40, LeBron James shouldn’t have to shoulder the playmaking load every night. With Paul in the lineup, James can shift off the ball more frequently, preserving his energy for clutch situations.
Paul’s playmaking would also elevate Anthony Davis’ game. Despite averaging 25.9 points and 11.9 rebounds, Davis often faces relentless double teams due to insufficient floor spacing. Paul’s presence would open up opportunities, boosting the Lakers’ offensive efficiency and helping them climb from their current 17th spot in scoring.
Meanwhile, the San Antonio Spurs embrace their rebuilding phase by moving Chris Paul, a decision that aligns with their long-term goals. Victor Wembanyama, now averaging 24.5 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 3.9 blocks in his second season, serves as the franchise cornerstone. Surrounding him with younger players who can develop alongside him becomes the logical next step in the team’s evolution.
