The Lakers’ current starting lineup is not one that can compete with other contenders. With LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and DeAndre Ayton, the core is solid. But the team still lacks the versatile, defensive wing who can balance the lineup. Herb Jones fits that role better than anyone, and it’s no surprise that the Lakers are interested in trading for him.
As Brett Siegel reported, both the Lakers and the Warriors are monitoring Herb Jones as a potential trade target.
“The Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors are among a handful of Western Conference contenders actively exploring ways to acquire Jones, league sources told ClutchPoints.”
He’s the perfect 3-and-D wing that could benefit any contender. While the Lakers’ offense has been great this season, their defense is lacking, especially at the point of attack and on the wing. Jones addresses that instantly. He made the All-Defensive First Team for a reason. He provides switchability across multiple positions and the instincts to clean up breakdowns before they happen. When a player solves this many issues at once, teams take notice.
The Perfect Fifth Starter
Jones is the rare player who improves every lineup without needing the ball in his hands. His cutting and reliability as a shooter complement the playmakers on the starting five. But more importantly, his defensive discipline elevates the entire structure around him. Insert him next to Luka, LeBron, Smart, and Ayton, and suddenly the Lakers’ starting five has balance: elite creation, disruptive guard defense, a true wing stopper, and a mobile interior anchor. This allows LeBron to pick his spots on defense and prevents Luka and Reaves from having to guard the quickest perimeter player. This also moves either Marcus Smart or Rui Hachimura to the bench, bolstering the 2nd unit talent.
Why It Needs to Happen
In a loaded Western Conference, the teams with the best chance of winning are the most complete ones. Herb Jones gives the Lakers exactly what they’ve been missing: a high-impact fifth starter who elevates both sides of the ball.
If the Lakers want to maximize this team’s potential, Herb Jones is the piece that finally makes their starting lineup whole.
