The Los Angeles Lakers could be just one piece away from title contention, but the latest rumors throw cold water on a big trade.

One NBA scout identified a player who could be a missing link for the Lakers as they look to become true championship contenders.

If the Pelicans are indeed “open for business,” the likes of Herb Jones, Trey Murphy III and Jose Alvarado will reportedly command a lot of interest. Jones, who signed a three-year, $68 million extension last summer, can’t be traded until January 14, 2026.

The LA Lakers could lose a potential trade deadline target, Keon Ellis, to the Indiana Pacers. The Sacramento Kings' lockdown guard is among the many players reportedly available via trade as the Western Conference franchise eyes a major shakeup amid another losing season.

The Los Angeles Lakers' season is going better than anyone expected when the team arrived at media day, and superstar LeBron James said he was dealing with scia

Lakers monitoring blockbuster trade for $109 million former Warriors fan-favorite, NBA champion originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here. The Los Angeles Lakers have proven they aren't afraid to orchestrate a groundbreaking trade if the perfect opportunity presents itself.

The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly keeping an eye on the former Warriors wing, Andrew Wiggins, as a target.

Things haven't gone as most expected for the Dallas Mavericks since their appearance in the 2024 NBA Finals. Luka Dončić was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in February, Kyrie Irving tore his ACL in March,

The NBA has always been a league full of drama, but nothing stirs up excitement and tension like a superstar demanding a trade. These moves alter franchises, shape rivalries, and even change the course of history.

Many expected the Suns to be much worse and eventually sell at the trade deadline, with Brooks as a likely trade candidate. But after the Suns' winning start and cultural shift, owner Mat Ishbia has become one of Brooks' biggest admirers, potentially silencing trade buzz surrounding the veteran forward.