It is not surprising if Los Angeles Lakers gets dragged into NBA trade rumors given their dismal run this season. However, all hell will break loose if the team decides to let go of their best player. Nope, not Kobe Bryant but Jordan Clarkson.
The sophomore guard is currently averaging 15 points per game this season, the best in the team. He is also Purple and Gold's number one in steal with one a game. These stats are not enough though for him to be spared from NBA trade rumors.
Reports from Movie News Guide says Clarkson could be part of a three-team trade deal with Los Angeles Clippers and Memphis Grizzlies.
"It seems that Clarkson might be traded, as the team is not willing to invest in the point guard," the website wrote.
"The source also added that trading Clarkson along with Nick Young or Lou Williams might reduce the team's payroll this season."
Bleacher Report also called Clarkson, who is only 23 years old, is a good trade bait for the Los Angeles Lakers. The half-American, half-Filipino player is set to become a free agent soon and that also means an increase in his salary.
"More is at play here, not the least of which is Clarkson's impending restricted free agency," BR wrote.
"The Lakers will have the rights to match any offer he receives, but against an $89 million cap, that offer could top $10 million per year. "
The sports portal also cited the crowded Lakers back court as one reason why the team might trade him.
"Fearful of overpaying him or losing him for nothing, the Lakers could see if they're able to use Clarkson's sub-$1 million salary as a buffer that rids them of an unsavory deal-the cherry atop a Nick Young or Lou Williams trade sundae that simultaneously slices costs and gives the team a better shot at keeping its top-three-protected first-rounder this June."
