The Los Angeles Lakers might amp up trade efforts for a stretch five who they’ve been targeting for a long time.
On Friday, Fadeaway World’s Fran Leiva put out a new report indicating that the Lakers could be in talks with the Indiana Pacers this winter about a trade involving two starter-level players on expiring contracts.
“Myles Turner has basically lived in trade rumors for years, and the Lakers are always one of the teams in the mix,” Leiva said.
“Turner’s contract situation makes things interesting—he’s on an expiring $19.9 million deal, just like D’Angelo Russell’s $18.3 million contract.”
Leiva envisioned the Lakers sending Indiana a package of Russell, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and a 2029 first-round pick in exchange for Turner.
“Swapping Turner for Russell would clear the books for the Pacers while giving them a nice future first-round pick in 2029,” Leiva said.
“Add in Jalen Hood-Schifino, a young player with potential, and it’s a package the Pacers might actually consider.”
“For the Lakers, Turner would be a perfect fit next to Anthony Davis in the frontcourt. His shot-blocking and ability to stretch the floor would complement Davis’ skill set perfectly. Together, they’d create one of the best defensive duos in the league while giving the offense a much-needed boost with Turner’s shooting and scoring. … Feels like a win-win.”
Turner is in the final year of his two-year, $40.9 million veteran extension.