The Los Angeles Lakers are not going to ruin their roster make-up anytime soon despite struggling the past few games. Basketball Insiders writer Steve Kyler believed the Lakers are staying put with their current lineup, unless an offer hard to resist emerges.
After a surprising start, the Lakers have now lost three consecutive games and four of their last five, dropping them to 9th in the Western Conference with a 10-13 slate. Despite their recent hiccups, the Lakers aren't looking to trade any of their players, especially with the great chemistry the team is enjoying in the locker room.
"I wouldn't bank on the Lakers making any significant trades. I spoke to some people close to that situation recently, and their message was that there is a special thing going on in the locker room.
There is trust and chemistry, and it's a positive environment and they are not actively looking to change that. Maybe if things sour, it's possible, but I don't see the Lakers messing with what's working."
Kyler also discussed during Monday's chat session about the prevailing rumors involving Luol Deng. The insider thinks the Timberwolves' interest in Deng might be a little bit overstated since head coach Tom Thibodeau will not risk losing one of their highly-coveted young talents for a veteran at the twilight of his career.
"As for Minnesota. I think the Loul Deng stuff is way overstated. While Thibbs would like to speed up the process, he's not giving away chips for just anyone. Luol Deng's contract would be a problem down the road."
The Lakers are playing without their original starting backcourt of D'Angelo Russell and Nick Young, who are both sitting out with injuries. While the Lakers bench continues to be impressive led by Lou Williams, the starting unit hasn't been consistent the past few games.
Los Angeles is scoring 104.9 points per possession (12th in the league), but their defense remains a problem as they allowed opponents to score 109.3 points per game (27th in the league).
