The LA Lakers have been involved in NBA trade rumors, primarily linked with superstars but the real trade that they are pursuing is to clear out Nick Young.
Frankly speaking, Young has worn his welcome with the Lakers. The team signed him when they could not sign anyone else because of their measly cap space. Young delivered in his first season with Tinseltown in no small part because the team lacked talent in all positions.
Meanwhile, Swaggy P totally embraced the Hollywood culture. He had everything a Lakers player aspires for-a celebrity girlfriend, money and fame. Too bad he didn't have the concentration to improve his game on the court.
After the D'Angelo Russell video incident, the Lakers locker room suffered some unrest and ultimately the front office felt the need to dispose of either Nick Young or Russell. Talent always wins in the NBA so Russell is the one who stays, as confirmed by Mike Bresnahan of the LA Times.
"Veteran Nick Young has two more years on his contract totaling $11 million, but it will be a surprise if he's not traded or waived before training camp."
Since there are not enough basketball reasons to trade for Nick Young, his value has plummeted and the Lakers are struggling to find a partner for him. There were suggestions that the Lakers add a second round pick, but considering the gems that the Lakers have unearthed in the second round (Jordan Clarkson, Ivica Zubac), that's bad advice.
They may have to settle with other team's disposable players. According to Space City Scoop, the Houston Rockets are also no longer enamored with Corey Brewer. They note that Brewer's percentage from the three point line has dipped and with new coach Mike D'Antoni taking over, shooting will be essential.
For the Lakers, taking Brewer back is not much improvement. He has a similar contract to Young, but at the very least he won't bring along the off-court issues that Swaggy P has brought to the table.
For the Rockets, Young still has the potential to be a good back-up scorer and he could thrive in D'Antoni's offensive set. This could be the last chance for both teams to dump the players that have fallen off their rotation.