Los Angeles Lakers: Players most likely to be traded before deadline

1. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

If there’s one Lakers player who seems nearly guaranteed to be traded in the coming weeks, it’s Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. The streaky 3-and-D specialist has seen his name plastered to the headlines this season as the Purple and Gold’s top trade candidate.

The Lakers nearly traded KCP to the Phoenix Suns during their pursuit of Trevor Ariza, but terms couldn’t be agreed upon (via The Ringer‘s Kevin O’Connor). Since then, we’ve heard numerous rumors regarding the Houston Rockets’ interest in acquiring the Lakers’ wing. Nothing has come to fruition yet, but there’s too much smoke for there to be no accompanying fire.

On top of that, James didn’t exactly give Caldwell-Pope a ringing endorsement when asked about the rumors of his teammate possibly being traded.

Realistically, the Lakers are still a ways away from true contention. Unless they swing a deal for a star before Feb. 7, their chances of getting anywhere past the second round of the playoffs are slim. Parting ways with KCP and adding some draft assets only makes sense as they continue to build around LeBron.

Anything is possible at this point. With other playoff hopefuls looking to add 3-point proficiency off the bench, Caldwell-Pope makes perfect sense as the Lakers’ top trade candidate right now.