Lakers News: LA Eyes Trading Up in Draft for 2020 Champ

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According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Los Angeles Lakers should consider a bold move to bring back a key player from their 2020 championship team. In this hypothetical trade, the team would explore the possibility of trading up in the draft to reacquire Alex Caruso, who currently plays for the Chicago Bulls.

Caruso, known for his defensive prowess, left the Lakers as a free agent in 2021. Since then, he has been a standout player for the Bulls, but his talents have been underutilized on a team that has struggled to make a significant impact in the playoffs.

The proposed trade scenario involves the Bulls moving up to the No. 4 pick in the draft, currently held by the San Antonio Spurs. To make this happen, Chicago might offer their current draft position along with additional picks. The Lakers would then trade their No. 17 pick and a 2026 top-five protected first-rounder to get Caruso back.

If the trade goes through, the Bulls could use the No. 4 pick to draft Matas Buzelis from the G League Ignite and select Purdue center Zach Edey with the No. 17 pick. This move would allow the Bulls to rebuild with young talent while giving Caruso a chance to return to a team that values his skills.

Since Caruso's departure, the Lakers have had mixed results but remain committed to building a competitive team around LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Bringing Caruso back could strengthen their defense and add depth to their roster.

This potential trade highlights the Lakers' ongoing efforts to improve and their willingness to make strategic moves to enhance their chances of success.