The Lakers could gain $107 million for the outcast Knicks by parting ways with Gabe Vincent

The Los Angeles Lakers are looking for a top-class reinforcement for their squad.

However, an underrated Toronto Raptors star and New York Knicks underdog could be a perfect fit for the Lakers.

“Would the 15-12 Los Angeles Lakers – who haven’t made a single trade since February 9, 2023 – step up to the plate with a major deal to save their 2024-25 season from what appears to be a new season? quick exit from the playoffs,” Alex Kirschenbaum of Sports Illustrated wrote on Saturday.

“Given team president and general manager Rob Pelinka’s reluctance to part with his future trade assets at past trade deadlines, he doesn’t appear particularly confident about Los Angeles’ chances.”

“Still, with an enthusiastic fan base and probably some pressure behind the scenes from the league’s oldest active player – 39-year-old All-NBA power forward LeBron James – it’s likely that Pelinka will have to take at least some minor steps in order to improve his squad.”

“Alternatively, the Lakers could look to get a little bigger but still thread the needle a bit by completing a win-now deal to bolster their offensive versatility without giving up all of their future draft equity.”

“Los Angeles could likely get away with giving up a heavily protected first-round pick or perhaps multiple second-round picks in exchange for the contract of Toronto Raptors small forward RJ Barrett.”

“Barrett, Knicks guard Immanuel Quickley and a second-round draft pick were sent to Barrett’s hometown Raptors in exchange for oft-injured championship forward OG Anunoby. Therefore, it is possible that no first-round picks will be poached in a later deal.”

“The Lakers could trade underperforming point guard Gabe Vincent’s $11 million contract along with starting combo forward Rui Hachimura (net $27 million this year) to Toronto for Barrett’s $25.8 million deal and the veteran swingman Garrett Temple, who in his prime was a… fun two-way role player, but now he’s more of a well-traveled coach on the floor.”

After the Knicks cut ties with Barrett last December, the Duke product immediately elevated his play at his next stop.

Previously known as a shot shooter with little offensive discipline, Barrett averaged 21.8 points per game on 55.3% field goal shooting and 39.2% three-point shooting with the Raptors last season.

Currently, Barrett leads the 7-22 Raptors with 23.5 points per game while shooting 45.5% on field goals and 35% on long-range shots.

Given that Vincent has been a major disappointment with the Lakers this season, Los Angeles should consider reaching out to Barrett and the Raptors this year.

More NBA: The Knicks are expected to cut ties with the unsuccessful $12 million frontcourt duo through a trade