The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly open to moving anyone on their roster at the right price.
Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders claimed the Lakers explore trade possibilities before the February 23 trade deadline. According to Kyler, the Lakers are "open to trade but anything involving young guys is very pricey."
While the Lakers would be willing to part ways with most of their players, it is certain that the team won't trade their core of young talents. However, Los Angeles' list of veterans could be available at the right price, particularly veteran wing Luol Deng.
The Lakers do not seem they are getting their money's worth on Deng, who only averages 8.0 points a game on 39.0 shooting from the field. The 31-year-old forward has been inconsistent on the offensive end, and at times lost in Luke Walton's system. But Deng is still a capable scorer and should still be a valuable acquisition for teams looking to add veteran help.
The Minnesota Timberwolves have expressed interest in trading for Deng in the past, with Tom Thibodeau reportedly growing impatient with his team. There were no confirmed trade talks that took place up to this point, but after Minnesota lost Zach Lavine to a season-ending injury, the Timberwolves may consider Deng as an option again.
Deng would fit well playing under Thibs as both have already worked together during their stint with the Chicago Bulls. Deng would give the Timberwolves a steady veteran presence who could help guide the team's own core of young talents.
However, trading for Deng would be risky for the Wolves, considering his age and hefty contract. Deng signed a four-year $72 million contract with the Lakers this past summer, which means any trade for the veteran forward would require the Timberwolves to give up a significant amount of assets.
Whether the Lakers would trade Deng remains to be seen, but it is worth noting the 16-time NBA champs have a rich history in making big deals before the trade deadline. Nevertheless, should the Lakers consider moving him, expect the Timberwolves to be among the teams ready to pitch offers for Deng.
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