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The past few months of the offseason have been defined by the search for an elite wing for the Los Angeles Lakers. After making several noteworthy additions this offseason, the Purple and Gold are formidable. Still, many believe a reliable starting-caliber wing could transform the team. In many ways, Jonathan Kuminga was positioned as the answer to L.A.’s problems. However, since the 23-year-old signed with the Timberwolves, the Lakers have been forced to begin their search once more. At this point in the offseason, free agency isn’t the most inspiring place to find upgrades. Hence, there is reason to believe a trade may be in the works. On that note, Heavy.com’s Sai Mohan presented an intriguing trade idea that would allow the Lakers to address their wing needs by acquiring Los Angeles Clippers forward Derrick Jones Jr. Here is Mohan’s proposal: Proposed Trade Details Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Derrick Jones Jr. Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Jaden Hardy, 2031 second-round pick (WAS), 2032 second-round pick (WAS), 2033 second-round pick (LAL) With the penalties from the Kawhi Leonard scandal having a drastic impact on the Clippers’ future, the franchise is expected to pursue trades to recover their losses. Thus, aside from the Purple and Gold’s need for a starting-caliber wing, this trade also addresses the Clippers’ need for draft capital. In theory, this trade addresses some key issues for both teams. However, we examine its impact by identifying the pros and cons. Here are the three pros of this deal: The Lakers Bolster Their Wing Depth Much of the Purple and Gold’s offseason has been marked by shoring up the team’s wing depth. With the departure of players like Rui Hachimura, L.A. certainly needed to make some viable additions. While signing players like Matisse Thybulle and Ziaire Williams may not necessarily stack up well against a starting-caliber forward like Hachimura, acquiring Derrick Jones Jr. from the Clippers could be viewed far more favorably. Although Jones is known for his remarkable athleticism, he also possesses other noteworthy skills. Considering he averaged 10.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, 0.9 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game while shooting 49.9% from the field and 35.9% from three-point range, the 29-year-old could be a more versatile fit in the starting lineup than Hachimura. Derrick Jones Jr. Provides Defensive Versatility Last season, the Lakers’ defense was subpar. However, their perimeter defense was outright concerning. Since Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves carry a considerable offensive burden, doubts about the duo’s ability to contribute on defense became commonplace this summer. Hence, by adding a player like Derrick Jones Jr., L.A. can address some of these issues. Jones’ athletic abilities typically garner attention on offense for his highlight-reel dunks, but this quality translates well on defense, too. With phenomenal instincts and physical gifts, Derrick Jones Jr. positions himself as a reliable perimeter defender. While he isn’t impressive enough to be considered a defensive anchor, his ability to read passing lanes and guard multiple positions definitely makes him an asset. Veteran Leadership One of the most interesting things the Purple and Gold did with their squad this season was to get young. By moving several older players, Los Angeles has embraced a future-friendly approach. Still, this also has its downsides. Since only a handful of players have playoff experience, the team could benefit from additional veteran leadership. On that note, a player like Derrick Jones Jr. is perfectly qualified for the role. With two trips to the NBA Finals under his belt, one of which was with Luka Doncic on the Mavericks (2024), Jones would become one of the most experienced players on the roster if he joined the Lakers. While his impact on the floor would undoubtedly be secondary, his influence in the locker room cannot be overlooked. For the most part, the pros are quite promising. In many ways, Derrick Jones Jr. even ticks all the boxes. Still, one major con needs addressing. Loss Of Draft Capital The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the weakest teams when it comes to having draft assets. Although this was their position last summer as well, the Purple and Gold dug themselves into a deeper hole after moving several assets to acquire Walker Kessler from the Jazz this summer. As things stand, the Lakers’ collection of first-round draft picks already raises flags regarding the team’s future. In this regard, sending three second-round picks along with Jaden Hardy‘s $6 million expiring contract would leave the Purple and Gold devoid of a future. Final Thoughts Aside from the fit, this trade is also feasible financially. It is worth noting that it would force the Lakers to take on an additional $4.4 million from Derrick Jones Jr.’s $10.4 million incoming cap hit, effectively sending them over the tax line. Still, given what they stand to gain from this deal, they may not oppose it. Thus, for the most part, this trade makes sense for both teams. However, there is reason to believe that some minor amendments could make it more favorable for the Lakers. Instead of sending out Jaden Hardy alone, the Purple and Gold could package Hardy with Jake LaRavia and one second-round pick for Jones. By doing so, the Lakers shed more salary, clearing up enough cap space and another roster spot to acquire Jones. Simultaneously, the Clippers would acquire two expiring contracts worth a combined $12 million. While the Clippers may not be as satisfied with just one second-round pick, receiving two wings to replace their own could have some merit. Since it would give them greater cap flexibility for the 2027 offseason, L.A. could use it to sign a superstar next summer instead.