Several rumors have surfaced this past week on potential moves the “Purple and Gold” could make in the coming weeks to add a veteran forward, allowing Bryant to stay at shooting guard and adding some depth in the front court.
The Franchise Herald suggested a trade with Chicago for Taj Gibson as the veteran has reportedly been unhappy this preseason with his role with the Bulls and lack of potential playing time in the upcoming basketball season.
The former USC star has seen an increase in minutes over the last two years and his stats reflect the increase, but with the depth the Bulls now have in the front court, it appears that a drop in playing time is inevitable. Despite a chance to play for one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference, a return to Southern California would benefit the veteran.
Gibson is a solid player on both ends of the court and his defensive tenacity is something the LA Lakers lack. The front office did use this past summer’s NBA Draft to add some young players, but they aren’t ready to produce at the level needed for this squad to win games, and a trade now could add another player to provide the youngsters with a positive role model on and off the court.
There’s no doubt this franchise is looking to next summer in hopes of adding a big name through free agency, but they must also do what’s best for the players already on the roster. Bryant won’t play much longer and this team won’t likely challenge for a playoff spot this season, but it never hurts to have quality people in an organization and a trade for Gibson could put a positive spin on a year where not much is expected from this team.
