The Lakers-Kings trade is suggested by ESPN to fix LA’s disastrous defense

A recent ESPN trade proposal that links Los Angeles Lakers and the Sacramento Kings it came out like Los Angeles continues to look for solutions to its defensive problems despite a strong position in the Western Conference standings.

ESPN NBA insiders have floated a small deal focused on perimeter defense, suggesting the Lakers acquire Keon Ellis from Sacramento in exchange for Dalton Knecht and a second-round pick in 2032.

The proposal was framed around fit and availabilityand ESPN noted Ellis’ defensive value to a Lakers team struggling to contain opposing offenses.

“Ellis is a natural fit for the Lakers, who rank 23rd in defensive rating and an even worse 29th since the start of December,” ESPN wrote. “His 3-point shooting has regressed this season (35.5%, vs. 42.9% in his career), but that lack of offensive brilliance is why the hard-nosed defender could be attainable in a small deal like this.”

The analysis also pointed to Sacramento’s inconsistent usage of Ellis as a potential indicator that the Kings might be ready to move him. Over his last 10 games, Ellis has logged at least 30 minutes twice while playing 10 minutes or less in four contests. With the 26-year-old guard set to hit free agency this summer, Sacramento might prefer to extract value now rather than risk losing him without compensation.

“The Kings also don’t seem to value Ellis much, given that his minutes are constantly changing,” ESPN added. “Sacramento might think it makes sense to cash in now for a second-round pick and Knecht, a 2024 first-rounder, who would bring shooting and decent size to the roster’s wing rotation.”

ESPN warned that negotiations could become more complicated if Sacramento raises the asking price, as the Lakers’ trade funds remain limited. Los Angeles currently only has one tradeable second-round pick in 2032 and would likely prefer to save their only tradeable first-rounder in 2031 or 2032 for a more impactful move. In addition, multiple teams are expected to pursue perimeter defenders before the trade deadline.

ESPN highlights Keon Ellis and Dalton Knecht trade in potential Lakers-Kings deal

A separate analysis by ESPN highlighted Ellis’ contractual appeal to Los Angeles. Ellis’ $2.4 million free agent holdout would allow the Lakers to use cap space in the offseason before going over the cap to re-sign him using Bird’s rights. From Sacramento’s perspective, Knecht’s controllable contract through the 2027-2028 season could align with a long-term reset.

Ellis, in his fourth NBA season, is averaging 5.7 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game while shooting 38.5 percent from the field and 35.5 percent from three-point range in 35 games, including four starts. He’s playing 17.9 minutes per contest and is in the final year of a three-year, $5.1 million contract, making $2.3 million this season.

Knecht, 24, has struggled to carve out a consistent role this season after an earlier trade to the Charlotte Hornets was voided. The forward is averaging 5.3 points and 1.7 rebounds per game while shooting 44.1 percent from the field and 32.9 percent from three in 30 games, logging 13.3 minutes per game. He is in the second year of a four-year, $18.4 million rookie contract and is making $4 million this season.

Despite owning a 23-12 record and fourth in the Western Conference, Los Angeles allowed 116.6 points per game, ranking 16th in the league, with a minus-0.2 net rating. Those defensive concerns have fueled speculation that The Lakers could be looking for marginal upgrades before the deadline.

Sacramento, meanwhile, has endured a rough season, entering the weekend at 8-29 and riding a six-game losing streak as questions remain about the direction of the franchise.

For now, both teams continue with their schedule. The Lakers host the Milwaukee Bucks (16-21) on Friday night at 10:30 PM ET on NBA TV, while the Kings travel to San Francisco to face the Golden State Warriors (20-18) at 10:00 PM ET as trade discussions remain mostly theoretical.