The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring options to strengthen their lineup before the NBA’s trade deadline at 3 p.m. ET on Thursday, aiming to boost their postseason prospects. With the window for deals closing quickly, the team looks to add valuable wings capable of providing defensive support and shooting.
Missed Opportunities and Trade Discussions
The Lakers recently missed out on targets such as De’Andre Hunter, who was traded by the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Sacramento Kings. Los Angeles had considered trading Rui Hachimura and Dalton Knecht for Hunter, but the proposed deal was deemed too costly.
Although the Lakers did hold a level of interest in Hunter’s skills as a 3-and-D wing, the idea of flipping Hachimura and Knecht for him without receiving any additional assets or draft compensation for the final year of Hunter’s contract was viewed as a negative.
Brett Siegel, ClutchPoints
The Lakers also showed interest in Keon Ellis, who was acquired by Sacramento in the same trade involving Hunter. However, the team’s front office had to weigh the costs of these options carefully.
Evaluating Naji Marshall as a Potential Addition
After the missed targets, attention has shifted to Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall, who fits the Lakers’ need for a 3-and-D wing. Marshall’s experience playing alongside star Luka Dončić makes him an intriguing candidate to complement LeBron James and Austin Reaves on the squad.
While Marshall’s addition would not instantly make the Lakers title favorites, his defensive abilities could help improve the team’s chances to outscore playoff opponents in tight matchups. Despite this appeal, acquiring Marshall is challenging due to the Lakers’ lack of available trade assets.
However, it’s The Athletic’s understanding that the Mavericks are reluctant to part ways with Marshall, whose availability, competitiveness and slashing ability is greatly valued,
Christian Clark, The Athletic
Considering Klay Thompson for Offensive Depth
Alongside Dallas, the Lakers are exploring the possibility of acquiring Klay Thompson, a respected three-point shooter. Although no longer at his career-best defensive level, Thompson provides consistent perimeter shooting, which L.A. desperately needs to boost its offensive firepower.
Thompson was originally brought to Dallas to complement Dončić’s play style, so he would fit the Mavericks’ roster dynamic. For the Lakers, he would be signed for the upcoming season and could contribute regardless of LeBron James’ status.
Adding a personal dimension, Thompson’s father, Mychal Thompson, won two championships with the Lakers, and Klay reportedly would welcome finishing his career in Los Angeles.
If Klay got bought out, I have it on good authority that the first call his agent would make would be to the Lakers. Because he would love to finish his career here,
John Ireland, ESPN Los Angeles
Trade Scenarios and Lakers’ Strategic Position
While signing Thompson post-buyout would be ideal for the Lakers, pursuing a trade before the deadline could prove advantageous. The Mavericks are reportedly open to offers for Thompson, suggesting a possibility for L.A. to negotiate a deal that fits their needs.
Thompson, brought in to complement Dončić and the injured Kyrie Irving, is a player the Mavericks will listen to offers about,
Christian Clark, The Athletic
Though acquiring Thompson would not be a blockbuster move, it would enhance the Lakers’ roster immediately and provide a foundation for building success into next season.
Jake Fischer during his live stream for Bleacher Report today stated the Lakers’ inability to trade for Keon Ellis – whom the team wanted – is an “indicator” to him that they’re not going to be “super aggressive” trying to find perimeter help.
He reiterated their desire to…
— The Lakers Review (@TheLakersReview) February 2, 2026
