Los Angeles Lakers Trade Rumors: Bold Moves to Land PJ Washington, Derrick Jones Jr.?

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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 08: Bronny James #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on against the Sacramento Kings in a preseason game at Crypto.com Arena on October 08, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

With five games into the 2026-27 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers continue to search for answers in their frontcourt. While a true backup center remains a glaring need, the team has also been linked to upgrades at power forward, with two names rising to the top of trade discussions: PJ Washington of the Dallas Mavericks and Derrick Jones Jr. of the Los Angeles Clippers. Both players offer versatility and proven chemistry with star guard Luka Doncic, making them compelling targets for a franchise desperate to bolster its roster.

Top Trade Targets: PJ Washington and Derrick Jones Jr. Steal the Spotlight

Team insider Jovan Buha recently emphasized both Washington and Jones as ideal fits during an episode of his show Buha’s Block. “I’m still on team P.J. Washington,” Buha said, adding that he’s also impressed by Jones’ recent performance, which included 15 points, five rebounds, four steals, and two blocks in 28 minutes against the Lakers on Wednesday night.

Buha highlighted Jones’ ability to contribute efficiently when utilized properly: “As long as he’s basically taking open threes, finishing in transition, and finishing half-court putbacks and lobs, I think Derrick Jones could be a really efficient and effective offensive player.” Both players’ familiarity with Doncic’s system adds to their appeal, as Buha noted: “We know about his defense and the ability to defend multiple positions. And we also have the proof of concept with Luka.”

Why Washington and Jones Fit the Lakers’ Blueprint

The Mavericks and Clippers have both acknowledged openness to moving their respective forwards, with Dallas holding a surplus of wing talent. Washington, in particular, has been a versatile scorer and rebounder, while Jones brings elite perimeter defense and three-point shooting. Their proven track records under pressure and experience in high-stakes games make them natural fits for a Lakers squad aiming to compete for a title.

Bronny James and Jaden Hardy: On the Trade Block?

Speculation around Bronny James and Jaden Hardy as trade assets has intensified. Both players carry modest contracts, making them viable options to move the needle without breaking the bank. Analyst Sam Quinn recently weighed in on social media, suggesting the Lakers should prioritize retaining salary flexibility: “If I were the Lakers, I’d be trying to trade Bronny right now to some owner who wants to sell some jerseys. I’d rather keep Knecht on the books as possible trade salary than cut him and deal with dead money. The Lakers don’t really need the James brand like other teams do.”

“Whatever they decide, I think something has to happen soon because they can’t keep playing this current rotation,” Buha added. “Then it’s Hardy or Bronny. And then I think they’re gonna try to flip Hardy. So Bronny is the one who’s only making a couple million that they could potentially waive.”

A trade involving Hardy or James could open the door for a free-agent signing like Dwight Powell or a larger move. However, Buha cautioned that such swaps require careful consideration: “Jaden Hardy is not, I think, a serious rotation player. I think they’re gonna try to flip Hardy.”

The Path Forward: Trade, Waive, or Wait?

The Lakers face a ticking clock. With the regular season in full swing, decisions need to be made quickly. A trade for either Washington or Jones would address both immediate needs—depth and defense—while a waiver move might allow for a quick fix in free agency. Still, the team’s limited assets complicate matters, leaving President and General Manager Rob Pelinka with a delicate balancing act.

“I think they probably have to address it via trade ultimately,” Buha concluded. “Even if it’s for another reserve big man instead of someone like Washington or Jones, that is what’s on the table for Rob Pelinka right now.”

A Defining Moment for the Lakers

As the 2026-27 season progresses, the Lakers’ front office must act decisively. The team’s ability to land a frontcourt upgrade will likely determine whether they remain competitive in the stacked Western Conference. While the trade market remains fluid, one thing is certain: the clock is ticking for a franchise eager to return to championship contention.

Eli Gregorski is a sports journalist covering the NBA for Heavy Sports. He has years of sports writing experience covering the NBA, NFL, college football and basketball, international soccer, and Formula One. He graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder, where he was the assistant sports editor for the award-winning CU Independent student publication. More about Eli Gregorski