Stephen A. Smith questions the Lakers pursuit of Trevor Ariza

Over the past few days, the Los Angeles Lakers have been linked with making a trade with the Phoenix Suns for Trevor Ariza.

Ariza was a free agent over the summer, and he opted to join the Suns in the summer on a huge $15 million one-year contract.

His departure has been attributed as a major factor in the Rockets decline this season, although the 33-year-old is reportedly no longer needed in Phoenix due to the teams poor run of form.

The Suns are willing to deal the veteran, although they reportedly want both a guard and a draft pick as part of any deal for Ariza. This is a steep asking price for a player on a one year deal and who is currently having a below par season.

Speaking on ESPN's 'First Take', analyst Stephen A. Smith was sceptical of the rumoured trade, suggesting the Lakers already had better players:

'Why would you want to do this if you got Kuzma and Ingram... His arrival is going to compromise someone's minutes in that equation'

During his appearance, Smith also stated he was doubtful that a trade could be made due to the fact that Lakers shooting guard, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, reportedly has the option to veto any trade. He is the man that the Lakers are likely to happen, so there could be a number of obstacles before a trade is made.

In the meantime, the Lakers face the Miami Heat tonight at Staples Center. It will be LeBron James second appearance against his former team in a Lakers jersey, having dropped 51 points on the Heat in November.

You can see Max Kellerman's full appearance on ESPN'S 'First Take' in the video below.

Let us know in the comments below if you think that the Lakers should make a move for Trevor Ariza. Also visit our dedicated basketball section for the latest news, rumors, and analysis.