The Los Angeles Lakers should be proactive in exploring potential trade opportunities with their crosstown rivals, the Los Angeles Clippers, especially with the current buzz surrounding players like Ivica Zubac and Kris Dunn. Given the latest Clippers news, including ongoing uncertainty surrounding Kawhi Leonard’s availability, the timing might be right for the Lakers to capitalize on a potential trade that could benefit both teams.
Ivica Zubac – A Familiar Face
Bringing back Ivica Zubac, who was originally drafted by the Lakers in 2016, would be a significant boost to the team’s frontcourt. Zubac has developed into a reliable starting center for the Clippers, known for his rebounding, shot-blocking, and efficient scoring around the basket. He also has strong defensive instincts, which would help shore up the Lakers’ interior defense, complementing Anthony Davis and allowing AD to play more minutes at power forward.
Zubac’s familiarity with the Lakers organization, along with his ability to protect the rim and anchor the defense, would make him a valuable addition. Adding him would provide more size and depth in the paint, especially when the Lakers face teams with dominant big men. His presence could also help reduce the workload on AD during the regular season, keeping Davis fresh for the playoffs.
Kris Dunn – An Under-the-Radar Asset
Kris Dunn, a versatile guard who has bounced around the league, could be an intriguing addition to the Lakers’ backcourt. Known for his tenacious perimeter defense, Dunn could help bolster the Lakers’ efforts to contain opposing guards. His ability to defend multiple positions, disrupt passing lanes, and bring defensive energy would make him a perfect fit in a Lakers lineup that values grit and versatility.
Offensively, while Dunn isn’t known for his scoring, he’s capable of running the point and distributing the ball, allowing LeBron James to operate more off the ball. His playmaking s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s could be an asset off the bench, providing depth behind D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves. If Dunn can find his shooting touch, he could become a solid two-way contributor in the Lakers’ rotation.
Why the Clippers Might Be Interested
The Clippers are dealing with their own set of issues, particularly surrounding Kawhi Leonard. With his health and future with the team often a question mark, the Clippers may be open to shaking things up to stay competitive in the West. A potential trade involving Zubac and Dunn could signal that the Clippers are looking to retool their roster while acquiring assets or players that fit their long-term plans.
The Lakers, with their willingness to take on contracts and leverage their assets, could offer the Clippers valuable pieces or future draft picks that might be appealing, especially if the Clippers need flexibility moving forward. The Lakers’ win-now approach aligns with their efforts to build a championship contender around LeBron James and Anthony Davis, making the idea of a trade a win-win scenario.
How It Could Impact the Lakers’ Playoff Aspirations
Acquiring both Zubac and Dunn would deepen the Lakers’ roster significantly. Zubac would enhance their interior defense, rebounding, and rim protection, while Dunn would bring valuable perimeter defense and additional ball-handling.
This trade would also allow the Lakers to focus more on their strengths—elite frontcourt play, versatility, and defensive intensity. Adding more defensive-minded players to the rotation would fit into JJ Redick’s new defensive system (if he’s consulting as a coach), and with the right rotation, the Lakers could become one of the best defensive teams in the league.
Additionally, the Lakers’ depth would improve, giving them more options when facing teams like the Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, or even the Clippers in a potential playoff series. With Zubac and Dunn on board, the Lakers could find themselves better equipped to handle some of the West’s most challenging matchups.
Final Thoughts
The Lakers should definitely explore the possibility of making a deal with the Clippers. Bringing Zubac back to the Lakers, where he started his career, alongside a scrappy guard like Kris Dunn, could round out their roster nicely. Meanwhile, with Kawhi Leonard’s situation still fluid and the Clippers potentially open to discussions, this could be the perfect time for the Lakers to strike.
Both Zubac and Dunn would fit the Lakers’ needs for defense, depth, and versatility. If the front office can get on the phone and put together the right package, this trade could help the Lakers make a serious run for the championship this season.
