5 Big-Name Trade Targets For The Los Angeles Lakers In 2016-17

Denver Nuggets PF Kenneth Faried

I know this one is off the wall, but hear me out.

The NBA is currently trending towards small ball, focusing on athleticism and tenacity instead of power and size. The Lakers already have plenty of athleticism on the roster, but adding another playmaker down low wouldn’t be the worst idea.

That’s where a player like Kenneth Faried comes into play.

Now Faried has had an up-and-down career since the Nuggets made him a first-round pick in 2011. While he’s slowly developed his offensive game, inconsistency has soured Denver on him as their star player. A change of scenery is likely, and could present an intriguing opportunity for the Lakers.

Los Angeles already has two young power forwards in Julius Randle and Larry Nance Jr., both former first round picks. However, neither has the experience or motor of Faried, once lovably nicknamed the Manimal. Even if the Nuggets don’t see much of a need for him, the Lakers might.

Walton is a big fan of tough, hard-working players down low a la Draymond Green. Faried is in a similar mold, making up for his lack of size with hustle and athleticism. If he starts to miss Green, he could find a suitable replacement in Faried.

And seeing Denver’s eagerness to move on from the Manimal, the Lakers wouldn’t have to fork over too much to get him.

Next: A Rising Star In Need Of A New Team