Unsettled Lineup Choices and Defensive Struggles Spark Frustration Within the Ranks

The Los Angeles Lakers’ decision to pair D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves in the starting lineup at the beginning of the season proved to be a mixed bag. While the offense was satisfactory, the point-of-attack defense suffered, prompting Coach Darvin Ham to abandon the experimental strategy. Fast forward to the New Year, and the duo swapped roles, but the lack of clear roles and consistent rotation has sown frustration and turmoil within the team.

According to NBA insider Jake Fischer on the “No Cap Room” podcast, there’s widespread frustration within the organization, with agents reaching out to the front office about their players not getting ample opportunities.

Trade Market Dynamics for Lakers’ Backcourt Duo

As the February 8 trade deadline approaches, the Lakers face the challenge of determining the fate of Russell and Reaves. While the team may have preferences, trade market dynamics often play a crucial role in shaping players’ futures.

 Fischer noted on potential trade scenarios, expressing uncertainty about the interest in a trade involving D’Angelo Russell, given his previous poor performance, making Reaves the more appealing trade chip.

Reaves Emerges as Valuable Trade Asset

Contrastingly, Reaves’ ascent has positioned him as one of the Lakers’ best trade assets, alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Fischer highlighted the dilemma faced by the Lakers, stating, “I don’t really know what the Lakers are going to be able to do to upgrade this team if they’re not sending Austin Reaves out the door, which of course they don’t want to do that. He’s their third-best player.”

Critical Decisions Looming for Lakers’ Front Office

With 15 games remaining before the trade deadline, the Lakers have a window to assess their roster. However, if February arrives and the team is still far from contention, the ownership and front office will be forced to make tough decisions about the team’s direction.

Questions Surrounding Coach Darvin Ham

Reports of a deepening disconnect between Coach Darvin Ham and Lakers players have intensified, raising doubts about his ability to lead the team. Fischer remarked on the “Ball Don’t Lie” podcast, “There’s just a lot of chatter from people around the organization that he’s [Darvin Ham] not the guy that’s gonna be able to get this thing over the hump.”

Coach Ham, on the other hand, vehemently denied the rumors, asserting his alignment with Lakers ownership and the front office. Despite the noise, Ham remains in the second season of a four-year deal with the Lakers.

LeBron James’ Future Uncertain

Despite LeBron James openly criticizing the team’s performance, trade speculations surrounding him are unlikely. NBA insider Marc Stein emphasized in his Substack newsletter that there is no tangible evidence suggesting James is looking to force a trade before the deadline. 

However, the Lakers risk losing him without compensation if he opts out of his $51.4 million player option for the next season. James’ future hinges on the team’s season outcome and the NBA Draft position of his son, Bronny, in June.