Why This Trade Makes Sense For The Los Angeles Lakers
If the Lakers feel confident in Marc Gasol, Montrezl Harrell and Kyle Kuzma being able to step up and hold things down until Anthony Davis returns, then there’s no reason for the Lakers to trade for another frontcourt player, but Gasol has been disappointing this year. The 36-year old center is averaging just 4.2 points and 4.2 rebounds per game this season in about 20 minutes per game.
He does not really do anything productive for this team, which is why trading for Mike Muscala could make a lot of sense. Muscala has the ability to knock down multiple three-point shots per game and could be an excellent role player the Lakers could utilize for 15-20 minutes per game in the frontcourt until AD gets back.
Even when Anthony Davis is healthy, Muscala could still be an excellent “plug-and-play” guy in the frontcourt for the Lakers to aid them in their perimeter attack. Whether it is stepping out on the perimeter and knocking down a shot in pick-and-roll situations or being a big body in the paint to rebound, Muscala can help the Lakers in numerous ways and is probably the best value, low cost player they could trade for before the NBA trade deadline.
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Trading Alfonzo McKinnie does not hurt this team at all, the only question is whether or not they are willing to give up a future first-round pick to get Muscala. Is he worth a first-round pick? Probably not, but if the Lakers want anybody on OKC’s roster, that is the asking price.
If Los Angeles truly believes they need another frontcourt option, then Mike Muscala is a great get, the only question is whether or not they are willing to give up what could be a valuable future first-round pick.
