Lakers Dealt Great News As ‘Dream’ Trade Target Likely To Hit Open Market

Los Angeles Clippers forward Derrick Jones Jr. is expected to become available on the trade market amid his team's 1-7 start to the season. The Los Angeles Lakers have long targeted Jones as an ideal 3-and-D wing to pair with Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and Walker Kessler, with multiple reports indicating the Clippers are emerging as likely sellers ahead of the trade deadline.

Jones is earning an expiring $10.5 million salary while averaging 11.6 points and 5.3 rebounds per game this season. Eli Gregorski of Heavy reports the Lakers could potentially package Jarred Vanderbilt or young players with draft capital, with analysts viewing Jones as an ideal fit due to his defensive versatility and previous chemistry playing alongside Doncic.