The Trade
Lakers Receive: Derrick Rose, 2022 Second-Round Pick
Pistons Receive: Kyle Kuzma, Avery Bradley
There are going to be some Lakers’ fans who have already given up on this trade idea due to the inclusion of Kyle Kuzma. However, Kuzma has not fit in very well with James and Davis, which leads to his departure in this trade.
If there is one thing that the Lakers could use, it is more explosion and scoring at the guard position. Rajon Rondo has done a good job at times, but L.A. needs a bit more consistency.
Rose is the kind of guy that could take the Lakers to the next level. He was a key piece for the Pistons this season, but obviously Detroit is not a contender. Putting Rose in a position to compete for championship would bring the most out of him as a competitor.
At 31 years of age, Rose is entering the twilight of his career. He is in the final stages of his prime, but can still go off for 25 on any given night. If the Lakers want to go all-in with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, adding a talent like Rose would make a ton of sense.
For the Pistons, they would be getting a quality young forward in Kuzma. He averaged 12.8 points per game this season to go along with 4.5 rebounds. Kuzma shot 43.6 percent from the floor and 31.6 percent from downtown.
Throwing in Bradley simply helps offset salaries. Bradley isn’t going to be a big piece for the Pistons and might end up being moved elsewhere anyway.
Expect to see the Lakers and Pistons both have busy offseason periods this year. They could very come together on a trade. This move would benefit both parties involved with the directions they are heading.