LA Lakers Rumors: Lakers would need to manipulate trade market if they want to acquire Bradley Beal

The LA Lakers are one of the teams linked with Bradley Beal of the Washington Wizards. The latest rumors suggest that the Lakers will have to manipulate the trade market to acquire Beal, who signed a max extension in the offseason.

According to Matt Moore of the Action Network, the Lakers' best offer for the Wizards would be a combination of Russell Westbrook plus the 2027 and 2029 first round picks. Moore also noted that the Lakers will need to make their magic work before they can add another star.

"The Los Angeles Lakers have popped up in multiple reports for the star scoring guard," Moore wrote. "That would require a typical Lakers-Esque manipulation of the market to force Washington's hand to give him away for very little beyond Russell Westbrook's eventually-expiring contract and their two future first-round picks in 2027 and 2029."

Bradley Beal opted to become a free agent last summer but stayed with the Wizards after signing a five-year, $251 million contract. He was also given a no-trade clause in his deal, which means he can veto any trade to teams he does not want to play for.

However, Beal has been plagued by minor injuries this season. He's already missed 15 of the team's 39 games. The Wizards have gone 7-8 without Beal, who's averaging 22.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.0 steals per game.

If the LA Lakers can add a player like Beal, their chances of making the playoffs will increase. LeBron James is still playing like an All-Star in Year 20, while Anthony Davis is making progress from his injury.

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LA Lakers also linked with Zach LaVine

Bradley Beal is not the only star linked to the LA Lakers ahead of the February 9 trade deadline. Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls has been mentioned as a potential trade target for the Lakers.

Michael Scotto of HoopsHype reported that the Lakers are one of four teams monitoring LaVine's situation in Chicago. Other teams that could pursue the two-time All-Star include the Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks and Miami Heat.

Scotto explained that LaVine spent his collegiate career at UCLA and is signed with Klutch Sports. The CEO of Klutch Sports is Rich Paul, who is also the agent of LeBron James. "The King" has been sending subtle hints to the LA Lakers front office to trade their picks to improve the roster.

LaVine is having a down season for the Bulls, averaging 22.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 1.0 steals. However, that can be attributed to his offseason knee surgery, and his numbers will likely improve as the season progresses.

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