The Bulls and the Bucks hold the key to a major Lakers trade

The Los Angeles Lakers have played extremely well to start the season, thanks in large part to star Anthony Davis, who has been one of the best players in the league this season so far. They’ve also gotten a boost from first-year coach and former player JJ Redick, who has been better than expected and maximized their talent.

Still, the Lakers could use a boost to their roster, which is largely the same as last season. They finished in the middle of the pack in offensive and defensive efficiency, despite having LeBron James and Davis on offense, and Davis dominating on defense.

They can potentially solve both problems by adding a stretch five that can also protect the rim. These players don’t exactly grow on trees, but two could fit the bill. Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez and Chicago Bulls big man Nikola Vucevic both qualify as stretch fives and could be available in a trade.

The Bucks likely aren’t looking to move Lopez just yet unless it’s a win-now move. However, if Giannis Antetokounmpo demands to be traded, then the Bucks would likely look to move on from players like Lopez.

At 36, Lopez’s value is declining, but he would still be able to help a contender and could get a first-round pick. He would provide an excellent fit next to Davis given his size and ability to protect the rim as well as his ability to knock down open threes.

Meanwhile, Vucevic would likely be more available and therefore more available to the Lakers. He has had a strong start to the season and has shown progress as an outside shooter. Although he has long been thought of as a stretch five, he has shot below league average over the past five seasons.

However, this season has been different, where he has drilled open looks. He is nowhere near the defender that Lopez is, but he is a blower who can score in the post and crash the glass as well as space the floor. With D’Angelo Russell seemingly in Redick’s doghouse and him on a big expiring contract, he would be the most likely Lakers player to be moved.

He and another player on a cheap deal in addition to a pick would possibly be enough for the Lakers to add Vucevic. A similar package could be the basis of a deal for Lopez if he suddenly becomes available. Given how well Los Angeles has started the season, making a move for a big man to pair with Davis could be key to helping them get back into contention.