NBA Rumors: NBA insider reveals two top trade targets for the Lakers

Lopez offers shooting and defense as another frontcourt option for LA

Meanwhile, Brook Lopez looms large as another option for the Lakers. The 4-8 Bucks have struggled this season, with Damian Lillard nursing an injury and Khris Middleton still rehabbing from his offseason ankle surgery.

A Defensive Player of the Year runner-up in 2022-23, the now 36-year-old has struggled to return to his 2022-23 form. After averaging 16 points, seven rebounds, and nearly three blocks per game in 30 minutes. That season, he shot 53 percent and 37 percent from three.

However, Lopez has experienced significant regression since 2022-23. The 17-year vet's numbers have continued to drop. In 31 minutes per game, Lopez averaged 13 points, five rebounds, and over two blocks, shooting 49 percent and 37 percent from three last season.

This season has been a catastrophic start for the big man. In 32 minutes per game, Lopez only averages 11 points and five rebounds on 41 percent shooting (31 percent from three). Lopez still averages two blocks per game.

Lopez may be a downgrade from Valanciunas, but he could be a cheaper option considering the combination of his contract (two years, $48 million) and performance. But, Valanciunas is the more affordable, more productive (13 points, eight rebounds, 58 percent shooting in 21 minutes per game. There are plenty of options for Los Angeles, but an injury to Anthony Davis could prove detrimental to the Lakers' season if they don't acquire an additional frontcourt piece.

After three-straight triple-doubles from LeBron James and poor play from guards not named Austin Reaves, the Lakers backcourt could continue James and Reaves heavily while seeking other options.

That includes the idea of trading D'Lo, a potentially coveted option for a younger team or contenders in need of a guard. By moving Russell, the Lakers could gain both financial flexibility and roster sustainability (short and long-term). If LA is serious about winning with LeBron, it's now or never.