Los Angeles Lakers Reportedly Eyeing Utah Jazz Guard Collin Sexton Ahead of NBA Trade Deadline
SALT LAKE CITY – The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly expressing interest in acquiring Utah Jazz guard Collin Sexton ahead of the NBA trade deadline. According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the Lakers are seeking to bolster their backcourt and have identified Sexton as a potential target.
Lakers Eyeing Sexton for Backcourt Boost
“You’re looking at the Lakers surveying the market for point guard help,” McMenamin reported. “Collin Sexton, 25-years-old, athletic, competitive. [He] averages about 17 points and four assists a game, more of a combo guard, but certainly someone that has ties to the Lakers in the sense that his agent Rich Paul also represents LeBron James and Anthony Davis.”
Sexton has become an integral part of the Jazz’s rotation since joining the starting lineup in mid-December. Coinciding with Lauri Markkanen’s return from a hamstring injury, the Jazz have compiled a 15-4 record in their last 19 games with Sexton in the starting lineup, propelling them back into contention for a Western Conference playoff spot.
As a starter, Sexton has averaged impressive numbers, including 21.9 points and 4.8 assists per game. His recent 30-point performance against the Memphis Grizzlies marked his first 30-point game as a member of the Jazz and the 14th of his career.
Jazz and Lakers Trade History
The Jazz and Lakers have a history of engaging in trades, with recent examples including the 2022 trade that sent Patrick Beverley to the Lakers for Talen Horton-Tucker and the three-team trade in February 2023 that involved Mike Conley, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Malik Beasley, Jarred Vanderbilt, Russell Westbrook, Damian Jones, Juan Toscano-Anderson, and a protected first-round draft pick.
It remains to be seen whether the Lakers and Jazz will be able to strike a deal for Sexton before the trade deadline. However, the reported interest in Sexton suggests that the Lakers are actively seeking to improve their backcourt and potentially bolster their playoff chances.
Sexton’s Potential Impact on the Lakers
Sexton’s addition to the Lakers could provide a much-needed boost to their backcourt. His athleticism, scoring ability, and competitive nature would complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis well. Sexton is also a capable playmaker, averaging 4.8 assists per game this season.
The Lakers have struggled with consistency this season, but the addition of Sexton could help stabilize their backcourt and provide them with a reliable scoring option. His ability to create his own shot and get to the rim would take some of the pressure off James and Davis.
Conclusion: A Potential Win-Win Trade?
A trade for Sexton could be a win-win for both the Lakers and the Jazz. The Lakers would acquire a young, talented guard who could help them compete for a championship, while the Jazz would receive assets to help them rebuild their roster.
Whether or not a deal can be reached before the trade deadline remains to be seen, but the reported interest in Sexton is a sign that the Lakers are serious about making a move to improve their team.
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