The Los Angeles Lakers have arguably the best backcourt in basketball. But that comes at the cost of perimeter defense. What’s missing is a consistent perimeter defender who can guard multiple positions without fouling. That’s why Keon Ellis could quietly be the answer.
According to Jovan Buha, the Sacramento Kings could be entering tank mode, which means they may be willing to move key rotation players — including Keon Ellis.
“Maybe Keon Ellis in Sacramento — there’s just a little bit of a fire sale there with how dysfunctional that situation is.”
If that’s the case, the Lakers should already be on the phone.
Guard Up
At 6′3″ with a 6′8″ wingspan, Ellis plays bigger than his frame. He can guard up, sliding from shifty guards to sturdy wings, much like Marcus Smart. Sacramento routinely trusted him against star scorers, and his blend of anticipation, foot speed, and toughness held up.
For the Lakers, who already have Marcus Smart and Jarred Vanderbilt setting the defensive tone, Keon Ellis would plug the hole that’s burned them for the past two seasons: reliable point-of-attack defense. In JJ Redick’s switch-heavy system, he fits seamlessly — disciplined, versatile, and low-maintenance.
Built for the Lakers’ Timeline
Keon Ellis is around the same age as Luka Doncic and fits perfectly into his timeline. He’s young enough to develop with the core, but experienced enough to hold his own when the lights get bright.
On offense, he’s the kind of 3-and-D guard every contender needs. He shot 43% from three last season, moves decisively without the ball, and has that smooth catch-and-shoot rhythm that slots perfectly next to Luka’s playmaking.
Potential Trade Package
Proposed Trade
Lakers receive: Keon Ellis
Kings receive: Dalton Knecht + second-round pick
If Sacramento really is pivoting to a rebuild, this is the kind of move that fits their new direction. Knecht, 23, is on a four-year rookie contract and offers upside as a 6′6″ wing shooter — a perfect developmental piece for a team stepping back from contention. They add a long-term prospect and a future pick while freeing minutes for younger guards.
For the Lakers, it’s the opposite. Knecht’s scoring upside is intriguing, but Ellis fills an immediate playoff need. He gives L.A. a defensive specialist who can start or close games, guard up the lineup, and hit threes without needing touches.
Good But Not Ideal
In a vacuum, L.A. would love a taller, switch-everything wing to round out the starting five. But with Sacramento’s fire sale looming, Ellis becomes a rare opportunity: a proven defender on a bargain deal who’s actually attainable without gutting depth or significant future assets.
Bottom Line
If the Kings are truly tearing it down, Keon Ellis is the exact kind of undervalued role player a contender could use. For the Lakers, giving up Dalton Knecht and a pick is a short-term sacrifice that fixes a long-term flaw — perimeter defense. Ellis may not headline a blockbuster, but he could be the steal that locks the Lakers back into championship form.
