NBA Trade Rumors: Andrew Wiggins No Longer Priority for Lakers as Kings’ $5M Elite 3-and-D Guard Draws Attention

The LA Lakers’ embarrassing 119-96 loss to the Houston Rockets on Christmas Day has only intensified trade rumors surrounding them. After the game, Lakers coach JJ Redick lamented that his team didn't “care enough.” Luka Doncic agreed that “something needs to change.”

What that change will be has sent trade scenarios running rampant. NBA insider Brett Siegel wrote on Friday:

“The market for athletic, defensive-minded players is extremely slim this year, leaving the Lakers with little to no options to immediately improve their title outlook this year. Sacramento Kings guard/wing Keon Ellis is the only other name that comes to mind, and league personnel have linked the Lakers to him in recent weeks.”

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Siegel reported that after showing interest in Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins, LA could pivot to Ellis. LA could use Keon Ellis, a career 41.7% three-point shooter with excellent defense.

However, Ellis, who signed a three-year, $5.1 million deal with the Kings in 2023, becomes an unrestricted free agent after this season. LA might be hesitant to trade for a player who could walk away in free agency.

Last season, he averaged 8.3 points per game on 43.3% efficiency from the 3-point line. Ellis’ defense remains a bright spot for the reeling Kings, who have a logjam at both guard positions.

This month, Redick's team has been the third-worst defensive team. Against Houston, it only started competing when it had Jarred Vanderbilt and Marcus Smart on the floor. Redick, though, hardly keeps them on the floor together for long due to their inefficient shooting.

Keon Willis could shore up LA's defensive shortcomings while keeping opposing defenses honest with his outside shooting.

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Fans react to Lakers’ potential interest in Keon Ellis

There has been no shortage of fan interest when rumors about the LA Lakers’ potential trade targets emerge. The news about the team possibly going after Keon Ellis prompted fans to toss in their thoughts about that scenario:

“Bandaid on a bullet wound.”

One fan said:

Another fan added:

One more fan continued:

Another fan commented:

LA has more pressing concerns like the health of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. LeBron James, who struggled against the Rockets’ physicality and pace, will turn 41 in a few days. If the trio is not playing their best, the fringe trades might not matter.

Still, the interest in Keon Ellis is understandable. He is only 26, and he brings excellent shooting and excellent defense.

Edited by Michael Macasero