The Los Angeles Lakers must trim their roster to 15 players signed to standard contracts before the NBA regular season begins next week, but they currently have 16 such players. This has prompted the team to explore minor trades as a way to reduce the squad’s size. NBA insider Jake Fischer noted on X that the Lakers remain among the teams still looking into trade options in the final days leading up to the season opener on October 19.
Fischer wrote that the Lakers, along with the Milwaukee Bucks and Memphis Grizzlies, are actively exploring trade possibilities. The recent waiver of Cam Christie by the Los Angeles Clippers has left roster decisions involving the Lakers, Charlotte Hornets, Milwaukee Bucks, and Memphis Grizzlies under close scrutiny by NBA personnel. The Lakers’ situation is among the more pressing given their current roster count.
The Lakers are reportedly considering “consolidation” trades, which would involve sending out two players in exchange for one. Players such as Dalton Knecht, Jaden Hardy, and Bronny James have been mentioned as potential candidates for trade or release. It remains unclear if the Lakers can secure anything in return for those players, but the front office appears committed to resolving the roster imbalance before the season starts.
If the Lakers do make a trade, it is unlikely to be a major deal involving a high-impact player. Instead, the team might target a backup center who can provide defensive presence and rebounding in limited minutes. Fans should not expect a needle-moving acquisition ahead of the season. According to the information available, any significant roster upgrades will probably have to wait until the February 11, 2027 trade deadline.
The Lakers’ deadline to finalize their roster is imminent, with the regular season tipping off next week. The ongoing exploration of trades underscores the team’s efforts to comply with NBA roster rules while maintaining flexibility. At this point, the Lakers have not confirmed any completed deals but continue to weigh their options in the final days before the new season begins.
According to Yahoo Sports.