Los Angeles Lakers: Latest rumors on Trevor Ariza trade, KCP and more

Lakers’ young core off limits in Trevor Ariza talks

Okay, you know the scenario with Ariza and the Lakers’ interest in acquiring him. The main question everyone is asking right now is what Los Angeles is going to have to give up to get the 3-and-D wing back in a Lakers jersey.

Well, according to the Los Angeles Times‘ Broderick Turner, it won’t be any of their young core.

"“The Lakers won’t surrender Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, Kyle Kyzma or Josh Hart to the Phoenix Suns in their pursuit of forward Trevor Ariza, said people familiar with the situation who were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter. “The Lakers have informed teams that have called about trade proposals that they will not give up any of their young core unless it’s for a superstar player, one person said.”"

Obviously, Ariza doesn’t fit into the “superstar” category. He’s a talented wing who brings excellent defensive instincts and quality shooting to the floor, but he isn’t going to turn the Lakers into the West’s best club. At 33 years old and on an expiring contract, Ariza also doesn’t warrant parting with significant future assets.

Word is the Suns want a playmaking point guard to partner with Devin Booker in the backcourt (via ESPN‘s Adrian Wojnarowski). However, with Ball and Hart off the table, it’ll certainly complicate discussions on trade packages. That’s likely why a third team has entered the mix — along with the Lakers’ need to include Caldwell-Pope to make the money work.

It’s safe to be excited about a potential deal. The Lakers aren’t going to part with a rising star to acquire Ariza, so don’t give yourself a heart attack.