Los Angeles Lakers Receive: C Bismack Biyombo, CHA 2025 2nd Round Pick

Charlotte Hornets Receive: F Markieff Morris, F Alfonzo McKinnie, LAL 2023 2nd Round Pick

So far this year, Biyombo has not had much of an impact for the Charlotte Hornets, as he is averaging about 22.5 minutes per game, but he is averaging 1.2 blocks per game and ranks 18th in the league in total blocked shots. With Marc Gasol not being much of a factor defensively and Montrezl Harrell’s focus on the offensive end of the court, Biyombo could be a solid plug-and-play guy for the Lakers defensively. 

This is Biyombo’s 10th season in the NBA and in all but two seasons, he has averaged above a block per game. He is not the best shot-blocker, but he is a reliable one that can really help the Lakers in AD’s absence. Not to mention, he is owed just $3.5 million this year, making a trade for him very painless and easy. 

Believe it or not, the Hornets are very much in the playoff conversation and could benefit from adding a veteran forward like Markieff Morris. Last season, Morris joined the Lakers late in the year and was a key role player for them during their championship run in the NBA Bubble. 

He not only brings playoff experience with him, but knows what it takes to win a championship, which could be really beneficial for a younger, inexperienced team like the Hornets. Alfonzo McKinnie is also an experienced player that knows what it takes to win a championship, as he played with the Warriors during their 2018-19 NBA Finals run. 

While this trade is oriented towards the needs of the Lakers, Charlotte actually makes out pretty well in this trade. With that being said, let’s take a closer look as to why this trade makes sense for both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Charlotte Hornets.