NBA Trade Rumors: Lakers Trade for Michael Beasley Is Step in Right Direction
The Los Angeles Lakers are not sleeping at the wheel as was previously thought. If they pull off a trade for the Timberwolves' Michael Beasley, it would signal that bright days are just around the corner.
Of course, that corner is mere hours away, as the Lakers would need to lock up help at the small forward position by the trade deadline Thursday.
There is hope as is reported by HOOPSWORLD's Alex Kennedy. The NBA writer tweeted this news on Wednesday afternoon.
"Sources confirm: Lakers, Wolves and Blazers discussing three-team deal. Michael Beasley to LA, Jamal Crawford to MIN, Steve Blake to POR.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) March 14, 2012"
That deal would have two lasting effects on the Lakers, one of which would need an immediate answer. First, the Lakers would get the small forward help they have been craving all year.
The Lakers have a huge drop off in talent after their big three, and now enjoy a great deal of depth off the bench by this one small change.
After that, there is still a great deal of work to be done.
Steve Blake would be gone, meaning another guard would have to be sought in the remaining hours before the trade deadline.
It's clear that Blake is not the answer as a starting guard, but he adds a great deal in depth and experience in the backcourt.
Losing him will affect an already wafer-thin position. With a trade for Beasley, a deal for a solid point guard upgrade would have to follow.
If not, the Lakers upgrade one position and greatly weaken another.
Los Angeles has two holes that need to be filled by close of business on Thursday. I like Beasley to fill one of them, but there is no way a team with eyes on the title can stop there.
