The Los Angeles Lakers are currently sitting at the top of the Western Conference with a record of 41-12, thanks in large part to the stellar play of their superstar duo, LeBron James and Anthony Davis. However, as the trade deadline approaches, it’s clear that the Lakers are in need of one key piece to solidify their championship aspirations – a solid 3-and-D wing.
For those unfamiliar with the term, a 3-and-D wing is a player who excels at both shooting from beyond the arc and playing strong defense. In today’s NBA, where the three-point shot is king, having a reliable 3-and-D wing is crucial for any team looking to compete for a title. And for the Lakers, who have their sights set on nothing less than a championship, this is a position that needs to be addressed.
Currently, the Lakers’ roster is lacking in this department. While they have some solid role players in Danny Green and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, neither of them fully fits the mold of a true 3-and-D wing. Green is known for his three-point shooting, but his defense has been inconsistent this season. Caldwell-Pope, on the other hand, is a solid defender, but his three-point shooting has been streaky at best.
This is where the trade deadline comes into play. The Lakers have been linked to several potential trade targets, but one name that stands out is that of Robert Covington from the Minnesota Timberwolves. Covington is a proven 3-and-D wing who would fit seamlessly into the Lakers’ system and provide a much-needed boost to their championship hopes.
Covington, who is currently averaging 12.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game, is known for his elite three-point shooting and lockdown defense. He is shooting 35.5% from beyond the arc this season and has a career average of 35.9%. His ability to knock down threes at a high clip would provide the Lakers with another reliable scoring option, especially when James and Davis are on the bench.
But it’s Covington’s defense that truly sets him apart. He has a reputation as one of the best perimeter defenders in the league, and his length and athleticism make him a nightmare for opposing players. With him on the roster, the Lakers’ defense would become even more formidable, and they would have the perfect player to match up against the likes of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George in a potential playoff series against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Of course, the question remains – what would it take for the Lakers to acquire Covington? The Timberwolves are reportedly seeking a first-round pick in exchange for him, and the Lakers do have their own first-round pick in this year’s draft. However, with the Lakers’ championship window wide open, it’s unlikely that they would be willing to part ways with their first-round pick. This is where a potential trade package involving other players and draft picks could come into play.
But one thing is for sure – the Lakers need to make a move for a 3-and-D wing before the trade deadline. With the Clippers, Bucks, and other top contenders making moves to improve their rosters, the Lakers cannot afford to stand pat and hope for the best. They need to be proactive and address their biggest weakness if they want to hoist the Larry O’Brien trophy at the end of the season.
And while Covington may not be the only option out there, he is certainly one of the best. His skill set and experience make him a perfect fit for the Lakers, and his addition would make them even more dangerous as they head into the playoffs.
It’s also worth noting that Covington has a history with LeBron James, as they were teammates on the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2013-14 season. This familiarity could be a factor in the Lakers’ pursuit of him, as James may be able to convince him to join the team and help them chase a championship.
In the end, the Lakers have a golden opportunity to solidify their roster and make a strong push for the title. With the trade deadline just around the corner, it’s time for them to make a move and acquire a solid 3-and-D wing. And with Robert Covington potentially available, the Lakers have a chance to not only improve their team but also weaken a rival in the process. It’s a win-win situation,
