3 Players Lakers Should Target Following Changed Trade Plans, Per Latest Report

Lakers targeting perimeter defense upgrades (Jaden Ivey, Tari Eason, Keldon Johnson) could strengthen defense and bench scoring. Betting impact: additions could push the Lakers' season win total higher and lift Doncic's assist/points props — punters should consider the Lakers over on win totals and boosted Doncic player props if a primary playmaker or defensive wing arrives.

Lakers Plan Roster Push After Locking Up Luka Doncic

The Lakers have secured their franchise cornerstone with a contract extension for Luka Doncic and are preparing to be aggressive in reshaping the roster around him. The focus: shore up perimeter defense, add reliable bench scoring and find wings who complement Doncic’s playmaking. Here are three realistic fits who could address those needs and what their arrivals would mean on the floor.

Jaden Ivey — Speed and Perimeter Defense

Jaden Ivey brings quickness and on-ball pressure that could help close one of the Lakers’ biggest gaps: defending guards who attack the paint. Though undersized, Ivey’s lateral speed allows him to stick with drivers and contest shots, while offering secondary playmaking that pairs with Doncic’s high usage. A move for Ivey would likely tighten opposing pick-and-rolls and reduce easy paint attempts.

Tari Eason — Defensive Intensity and Versatility

Tari Eason profiles as a disruptive perimeter defender who can smother ball handlers and switch across multiple positions. His intensity on defense would bolster the Lakers’ on-ball coverage and add a physical presence on the wing. Eason’s ability to contest and create turnovers could translate into more transition chances for Doncic and the starters, improving both defensive efficiency and offensive rhythm.

Keldon Johnson — Bench Scoring and Durability

Keldon Johnson is the most realistic trade candidate of the three and offers dependable bench scoring and rebounding. Known for efficient shooting and durability, Johnson would provide the Lakers with a reliable offensive spark when starters rest. His scoring chops would help balance minutes and reduce offensive lapses from the second unit.

How These Moves Could Shift Betting Markets

Adding a defensive wing or a proven bench scorer would alter market expectations. Improved perimeter defense tends to lower opponent scoring and can swing close games in the Lakers’ favor, nudging their season win total upward. Offensively, a playmaker or scoring wing could increase Doncic’s assist numbers and stabilize bench scoring, affecting player props and game spreads. Punters should watch roster confirmations: consider the Lakers over their win total and upticks on Doncic’s assists/points props if a primary playmaker or defensive wing is acquired.

Takeaway

Targeting Ivey, Eason and Johnson addresses clear roster holes: perimeter defense, defensive versatility and bench scoring. Any of these additions would be meaningful for on-court fit and for bettors assessing season-long win totals, player props and game lines as the team pivots to build around Doncic.

The Lakers should try to trade for these three players this season, following a recent report.

Si