Lakers Covet Herb Jones, Trey Murphy At Deadline

Merlin sees the Lakers, sitting 21-11 and fifth in the West, hunting for a "two-way wing with size" before the trade deadline, per Marc Stein. The market looks thin, with New Orleans "still resistant" to moving Herb Jones or Trey Murphy III. Los Angeles has made it clear it will only give up summer flexibility if it can land a "real needle-mover." Their recent slide—seven losses in 13 games—adds urgency to any deadline move. Merlin predicts a cautious approach. Finding a true defensive wing without overpaying is rare, so the Lakers will weigh short-term help against costly long-term consequences. A smart rental could steady the ship; an aggressive swap could limit next summer’s options. Watch teams with excess wings for the most plausible fits.