3 Lakers trades that make too much sense not to happen

2. Myles Turner to the Lakers

The defense of the Lakers is one of the strengths, and adding a big like Myles Turner will only make them more dominant. Turner is one of the league’s best shot-blockers, leading the NBA with 3.4 blocks per game. His offensive isn’t special but is productive. The Pacers big man can score down low or pop out for the occasional three-pointer.

Acquiring Turner would give the Lakers two tall trees down low in him and Davis. Opposing players would have a tough time getting shots over their outstretched arms. In addition, his size would be beneficial on offense for pick-and-roll situations for James and others. LA actually had an interest in trading for Turner before the NBA trade deadline, according to IndyStar’s J. Michael.

Bringing in Turner will require some finessing of the salary cap, but it is doable. A package of Kuzma, Caldwell-Pope, Harrell (if he’s on the roster), and McKinnie should be enough to cover Turner’s contract. LA could even toss in a draft pick to sweeten the deal, even though they don’t have one until 2023.

Getting Turner would set the Lakers up for a dominating defense and a creative offense. Having two bigs who can shoot with LeBron James could only mean insane highlights, whether it be alley-oops or flashy passes for 3-pointers. For a defensive team like the LA, acquiring Turner is short of a no-brainer.