The Los Angeles Lakers will be on the hunt this offseason for stars that can help elevate the roster from what it was this season.
A second-round sweep loss in the playoffs exposed everything about a roster lacking in true depth. As such, moves are needed but with a lot of considerations for cap flexibility and complementary pieces.
According to Sportsnaut’s Jason Burgos, a pair of New Orleans Pelicans stars could be an affordable option.
“If the Lakers want to go in a more budget-friendly route to address certain issues, another option would be to get the New Orleans Pelicans on the phone and inquire about the cost of a trade for center Yves Missi and forward Herb Jones,” Burgos wrote.
Missi and Jones are not high-profile names to be linked with, however, they will provide additional depth to the roster.
Lakers Possible Trade Appeal
GettyLakers head coach JJ Redick, left, and Rob Pelinka, President of Basketball Operations and General Manager, arrive for press conference to discuss Lakers 2025-26 season at the UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo on September 25, 2025.
Neither Jones nor Missi posts numbers that will have front offices rushing to have their signatures. However, the Lakers don’t necessarily need players with the numbers; they need squad pieces.
Jones, 27 could help with the Lakers’ defensive woes on the perimeter. Missi, the 21-year-old 6-foot-11 center drafted 21st overall in 2024, has also shown promise as a rim protector with room to grow.
“Neither has impressive offensive stats, but they are the impact defenders the Lakers should target this summer,” Burgos added. “Jones is a top perimeter defender. Missi is an impressive 21-year-old rim protector who can be further developed. It isn’t a sexy trade, but will play big dividends during the season.”
Jones is a starter for New Orleans and he averaged 8.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.6 steals per game this season in 56 games. He could slide into the Lakers’ starting forward position pending whether LeBron James remains or not. If not, he could provide depth from the bench.
The center position has been a tough one for the Lakers. Starting center DeAndre Ayton and backup center Jaxson Hayes have all had shortcomings in perimeter defense. Missi will provide a cheaper and younger alternative in that position.
Will New Orleans Trade Stars?
GettyLakers guard Luka Doncic is defended by Herbert Jones. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
The Pelicans have been struggling for years and may look to retool once more. Both Jones and Missi are valuable pieces and they won’t want to lose them for pennies on the dollar.
Jones is still under a five year contract which is part of a three year extension he signed last summer. Missi is still in his rookie scale contract which realistically makes him affordable. However, the Lakers must give something up, they hold future first-round picks including one in 2025 and could structure a deal involving outgoing contracts or young talent to make salaries work.
James’ decision will play a big part in what the front office will plan in terms of incomings and outgoings. The 41-year-old star will be a free agent this summer and could return on a veteran deal or explore new options.
Whatever that plan may be, building around Luka Doncic will be the main point if they hope to compete. L.A. has clearly pivoted toward a longer-term vision centered on the Slovenian superstar who was acquired in the blockbuster 2025 trade that moved Anthony Davis.
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