The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly eyeing a major offseason move to bolster their roster and maximize LeBron James’ championship window. The Lakers could target Chicago Bulls guard Coby White in a summer trade to address their offensive struggles and provide additional firepower alongside LeBron and Luka Doncic.
The Lakers have shown flashes of brilliance since acquiring Doncic in a Los Angeles blockbuster trade earlier this season, but their offense has noticeably regressed in recent weeks. Despite a thrilling 113-109 overtime victory against the New York Knicks, the team ranks just 15th in offensive rating over their last eight games. This dip has sparked speculation that general manager Rob Pelinka is already planning for the offseason, with Coby White emerging as a potential target.
White, 25, has blossomed into a dependable scorer and playmaker for the Chicago Bulls this season. Averaging 18.9 points, 4.5 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game, the 6-foot-5 guard has showcased his ability to handle the ball and create his own shot. His skill set aligns with the type of player LeBron and Doncic have thrived alongside in the past, such as Kyrie Irving during their championship runs. While White isn’t on Irving’s level, his offensive versatility makes him an intriguing fit for theLos Angeles Lakers.
“The reason why the Lakers could be drawn to Coby White as a potential top-end trade target could boil down to the fact that both Doncic and James have experienced major success while sharing the court with a player of his archetype,” noted Dean Simon of Sporting News in a recent report. White’s ability to operate as a secondary ball-handler and scorer could alleviate pressure on the Lakers’ star duo, creating a more dynamic and balanced offense.
A potential trade package for Coby White might include rookie Dalton Knecht, the expiring contracts of Gabe Vincent or Jarred Vanderbilt, and draft capital. Such a deal would allow the Los Angeles Lakers to acquire a proven contributor without completely gutting their roster.
As the Lakers continue their push for playoff positioning, the front office appears to be laying the groundwork for a pivotal offseason. Adding a player like Coby White could be the key to unlocking their full potential and making one final championship run with LeBron James leading the charge