Lakers Rumors: Marc Stein Reveals LA’s Clear 3-and-D Trade Blueprint

The Los Angeles Lakers are winning games — but not fooling anyone internally.

Despite an 18–7 record and a dramatic road win over the Phoenix Suns, a glaring weakness continues to hover over this roster as the postseason approaches.

Perimeter defense.

And according to respected NBA insider Marc Stein, the Lakers already know exactly what kind of solution they want.

🔍 Marc Stein’s “Read” on Lakers Trade Priorities

In his latest Substack report, Stein pulled back the curtain on Los Angeles’ trade philosophy ahead of the February deadline.

The message was clear:

fit the timeline — don’t chase names.

“My read on the Lakers' preferences is that they would like to target players in the same age range as stars Luka Dončić (26) and Austin Reaves (27) as they continue building out the roster around them as opposed to surrendering prime trade assets for thirtysomethings.”

That insight reveals a calculated approach.

The Lakers aren’t desperate — they’re strategic.

🛡️ Why a 3-and-D Wing Is the Top Priority

The issue isn’t subtle.

Los Angeles currently lacks a wing who can:

• Defend elite perimeter scorers
• Switch across multiple positions
• Knock down open threes consistently
• Stay playable in high-leverage playoff minutes

That absence becomes glaring against athletic teams like Oklahoma City, Denver, and Houston — exactly the kind of matchups LA expects in the postseason.

🚫 Herb Jones Likely Out of Reach

Stein also poured cold water on one popular rumor.

Herb Jones, frequently linked to the Lakers, is viewed as too expensive in terms of trade capital. Between draft assets and young players, New Orleans would demand more than LA appears willing to surrender.

That doesn’t mean the Lakers won’t explore the market — it means they won’t panic.

👀 Keon Ellis Emerges as a Realistic Option

Another name continues to surface in league circles: Keon Ellis of the Sacramento Kings.

Previously reported by Brett Siegel, Ellis checks several boxes:

• Defensive versatility
• Reliable perimeter shooting
• Age alignment with LA’s core
• Lower acquisition cost than elite-tier defenders

It’s the type of smart, scalable move that fits Stein’s read perfectly.

🧩 Building Around Luka and Reaves — Not the Past

This is no longer a short-term-only Lakers team.

With Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves firmly in their primes, the front office is clearly focused on sustainable contention, not one-year gambles that mortgage the future.

That’s why surrendering assets for aging veterans doesn’t align with the current vision — even with LeBron James still in the picture.

📈 Winning Now — Fixing What Matters Most

At 11 games over .500, the Lakers have exceeded many preseason expectations.

But internal belief doesn’t equal internal blindness.

If Los Angeles truly wants to stand toe-to-toe with the West’s elite, they need at least one wing who impacts both ends of the floor — not just offensively, not just defensively.

Marc Stein’s reporting suggests the blueprint is already drawn.

Now it’s on Rob Pelinka to find the right piece — without breaking the timeline.