Los Angeles Lakers: 3 stars to target ahead of 2019 NBA Trade Deadline

2. Jabari Parker, PF, Chicago Bulls

I know, right? Why would the Lakers want the Chicago Bulls’ sloppy seconds?

Well, for starters, Jabari Parker is still the potential-laden former No. 2 overall pick possessing the upside to develop into a star. We saw plenty of it during his days with the Milwaukee Bucks, but injuries often kept him from fully realizing it.

The change of scenery to the Windy City, his hometown, was supposed to be the key to unlocking his true potential. Now, he’s out of the rotation and looking like arguably the worst free agency decision of the 2018 offseason. While that may be the case, that doesn’t mean Parker can’t still be salvaged.

In Chicago, Parker was signed to be the savior. That was a terrible situation for the Bulls to put him in, but it’s what the situation was. In Los Angeles, it would be the complete opposite. Playing alongside LeBron and his gaggle of rising stars, Parker would simply be a complementary piece. At this point, that may actually be the best role for him.

On top of that, it’s not like he’d cost the Lakers much. Parker is a thorn in the Bulls’ side, and they’re simply looking to erase their offseason misfire. With little leverage and Parker’s $20 million salary scaring potential suitors away, the Bulls could opt to pull the trigger if Magic swoops in with a reasonable offer.

Better yet, Parker’s deal has a team option for 2019-20. So if he flops in Los Angeles, the Lakers didn’t give up much to get him and can bid him adieu this upcoming offseason. It’s a low-risk, high-reward situation.

Even if he does look good, Magic could probably convince him to re-sign at a steep discount considering his disastrous few months in Chicago, further maximizing this roster’s future potential.