Lakers Pursue Keon Ellis to Boost Defensive Performance
The Los Angeles Lakers are actively exploring options to bolster their defensive lineup, as the team finds itself grappling with significant struggles on that end of the court. Currently holding a 19-8 record, the Lakers rank just 23rd in defensive rating across the NBA, surrendering an alarming average of over 118 points per game in their last five outings.
Offensive Strengths Amid Defensive Concerns
Despite these defensive woes, the Lakers have remained competitive in the Western Conference, largely due to their offensive firepower. However, many within the league assert that for Los Angeles to truly contend for an NBA championship this season, a defensive upgrade is essential. As they navigate the trade market, the Lakers face challenges rooted in their limited assets, possessing only one first-round pick to dangle in negotiations and lacking a deep pool of promising young talent.
Interest in Keon Ellis
Among the players on their radar is Keon Ellis of the Sacramento Kings. The young wing has garnered attention from a variety of teams this season, with one NBA general manager stating, “At least half the league has asked about him.” Although Ellis has not been at his best this year, his reputation remains intact. The general manager further noted, “The Lakers tend to get talked about more, but everyone loves him.”
Ellis is recognized for his defensive prowess on the perimeter and possesses a solid three-point shooting ability, having shot 43.3 percent from beyond the arc last season. However, his minutes have dwindled this year, resulting in a dip in both statistical output and efficiency.
Attributes Enhancing Ellis’ Trade Value
While some may question his star potential, Ellis brings valuable attributes that make him an appealing target for teams eager to enhance their rosters as the playoff race heats up. “It’s not that the guy is a star player out there or he is going to develop into a star or anything like that,” the general manager explained. “He has not even played that great this season, but he has a couple things going for him that are pushing his market. One, he is plug-and-play. Everybody needs another guy who can knock down shots and defend on the perimeter. Two, he is cheap. He makes $2.3 million. You can take a guy off the end of your bench, put a couple of second-round picks in the deal and come away with a guy who would be in anyone’s rotation right now.”
Shifting Focus from Herb Jones
With the Lakers seemingly sidelined in the pursuit of Herb Jones due to their asset limitations, Keon Ellis emerges as a viable alternative to help solidify their defensive structure. The general manager voiced skepticism about the Lakers parting with a first-round pick for Ellis, indicating that while the Kings may ask for it, a deal is likely to be more modest. “It is hard to imagine giving up a first-rounder for him and I don’t think that’s where it will land,” he said. “But [the Kings are] right to keep asking for it, and maybe someone bites at the end.”
As the Lakers consider their options, all eyes will be on how they navigate these trade waters in search of the defensive upgrade necessary for a deeper playoff run.
