NBA Trade Rumors: 11 Third star targets Lakers should begin exploring

NBA Trade Rumors: It may be time for the Los Angeles Lakers to begin exploring trades for a possible third star.

The Los Angeles Lakers have gotten off to another uneasy start to the season. At 4-5, there are some very big questions that this team will have to answer sooner rather than later. The biggest of such being, do they have enough around LeBron James and Anthony Davis to emerge as a true championship contender in the Western Conference?

Perhaps the proof is in their recent play. If something doesn’t change quickly, the Lakers are going to find themselves in the same predicament that they were in last season heading into the trade deadline. Unlike last season, there’s an argument to be made that the Lakers should be more proactive quicker than waiting until the trade deadline.

It wouldn’t be outrageous to suggest that the Lakers should start exploring potential trades for a third star if they haven’t already begun doing so. Assuming Los Angeles is at that place, we explore 11 star targets that could emerge as trade deadline possibilities.

Potential star-level trade targets for the Los Angeles Lakers

Buddy Hield, Indiana Pacers

Before the start of the season, there was some reporting that suggested the Indiana Pacers and Buddy Hield were going to work together to find a trade that would make sense for both sides. However, there has been little-to-no traction on that front. Add in the fact that the Indiana Pacers have gotten off to a quick start, and you’d have to wonder if Hield will still be traded before the deadline.

In a reduced role this season, Hield has still been productive for the Pacers. With the Lakers, however, he could end up being much more valuable. As a third option, Hield could thrive in Los Angeles.