5 moves the Los Angeles Lakers can make to turn season around

EL SEGUNDO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 26: LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers speaks with the media during Los Angeles Lakers media day at UCLA Health Training Center on September 26, 2022 in El Segundo, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

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PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – OCTOBER 12: Terry Rozier #3 of the Charlotte Hornets looks on during the first quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on October 12, 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) /

3. Trade for Terry Rozier and Gordon Hayward

The Charlotte Hornets have one of the worst records in the NBA, but they have two strong assets in Terry Rozier and Gordon Hayward. In a blockbuster year featuring potentially two franchise-altering top draft picks, it’s possible that the Hornets could look to make a move that better legitimizes what could be perceived as a tank job, frees up some cap space, and most importantly, gives them a legitimate chance to go after Victor Wembanyama or Scoot Henderson.

That said, this is another trade that could likely involve Russell Westbrook and draft picks. It’s unclear what value the Hornets would genuinely get out of this deal, and the Lakers are left with the same problem discussed ad nauseam throughout these slides: to what end are these trades? Especially with Hayward out indefinitely with a fractured shoulder. Kelly Oubre Jr. and Mason Plumlee could be swapped in for Hayward but it’s not clear that’s any better for the Lakers. Because they’ve already traded so many players and picks away during the LeBron James years, they’re running out of valuable pieces to deal. The team is so depleted. They might just have to give Russell Westbrook away.

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