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Christmas for the Los Angeles Lakers was a delightful one this year. Their much-awaited, much-needed win came just in time to save the day. LeBron James and Austin Reaves went all-out for the team, thus pinning the home boys, the Warriors at Chase Center. But amidst all the glory and more, Rob Pelinka cannot keep his eyes off the trade market. He’s already missed out on getting Dennis Schroder. And now, with the time frame shrinking, he must come up with a plan.

And it looks like Rob Pelinka has something in his mind. Shams Charania made waves during his appearance on ESPN’s First Take before the Christmas Day showdown on Wednesday. The NBA insider revealed that Pelinka & Co. are willing to part with three first-round picks to strengthen their roster around LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Shams Charania informed: “They’re monitoring the sellers around the NBA, Portland, Washington, Toronto, maybe Chicago and my sources in that Lakers front office tell me they’re open to moving, they’ve got three first-round picks they can trade.” He added: “They’re open to moving that in a potential trade, but they want a player or players that they feel can get into this iteration of this team now with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, but can also play for three, four, five more years under JJ Redick as the coach.”

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— CyrusTheVirus (@CyrusTheVirusP) December 26, 2024

Rob Pelinka and the Lakers’ willingness to trade their valuable draft assets tells a bigger story. It signals their commitment to immediate contention while still planning for the post-LeBron James era. James is turning 40 this season. Therefore, the front office has to scrutinize every decision they make. This is to ensure that Pelinka’s biggest star has the championship window open.

Moreover, the Christmas Day win proved that potential exists within the team. Perhaps this team could become title contenders if the GM pulls off the perfect moves before the trade deadline breathes on their shoulders. The Lakers need a spark. Impact players are out there, but finding the perfect fit is key. There’s always that pesky “Lakers Tax,” though!

GM Pelinka’s playing it cool, not about to overspend on just anybody. He’s hunting for a game-changer, someone who truly elevates the team. What’s the magic move? Nobody knows yet. But the Lakers are watching everyone, hoping a winning trade pops up and puts them right back in the title chase. Besides, the front office has already decided on what they want with one of their stars.

Rob Pelinka isn’t willing to give Austin Reaves up in any deal with the Chicago Bulls for Zach LaVine

The Lakers are sorting their priorities. Of course, as long as LeBron James is on the team, he and Anthony Davis are the primary focuses. But these senior players need a team to back them on the court. And as of now, Austin Reaves is a talent they’re observing.

Whispers of Zach LaVine landing in L.A. have been swirling. He’s a scoring machine, a former All-Star. Rob Pelinka and the Lakers are interested, but there’s a catch. They adore Austin Reaves. He’s untouchable. Reports suggest the team is refusing to include Reaves in any LaVine deal. One major reason for this is that the money doesn’t quite add up for both sides.

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Moreover, recent rumors suggest that the GM could be fired if the team fails to improve in this season. Simply put, Pelinka has to do something to stir up the roster and shake up the game if he wants to continue in his position as the all-important ringmaster. Last season people blamed Darvin Ham for the downfall, but now, it’s Rob Pelinka who’s on the radar.

Therefore, with an intent to revolutionize the LA Lakers, the front office is willing to make some blunt decisions. You see, it’s important for the team to make LeBron James’ last year seasons in the league full of championship-winning possibilities. Moreover, with a long-term strategy in mind, something is about to happen in the Purple and Gold. So, watch out!