A proposed trade scenario circulating on social media would send second-year forward Adou Thiero and veteran wing Jarred Vanderbilt to New Orleans in exchange for Herbert Jones. If such a deal were to materialize, the Lakers would receive Herbert Jones and a 2031 second-round pick via the Pelicans. In return, the Pelicans would acquire Vanderbilt, Thiero, a 2032 pick swap, a 2030 second-round pick via Washington, and a 2033 second-round pick via the Lakers.
Public reporting indicates the Pelicans value Jones highly, reportedly asking for two first-round picks in return. With the Lakers already having expended much of their draft capital in past moves, they do not currently hold a traditional first-round asset to offer, complicating a potential pursuit of Jones.
Analysts have weighed in on the fit. Jones’s strengths as a two-way wing—especially his perimeter defense and emerging shooting—align with an identity that a defensively minded coaching staff could maximize. Some observers believe the Pelicans could be open to moving Jones if it accelerates a restructuring of their frontcourt rotation and shooting profile. Others caution that trading a culture-setting defender who has contributed to the team’s defensive identity would be a difficult call, particularly if frontcourt depth remains a concern.
The Lakers’ offseason acquisitions—Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes, Sandro Mamukelashvili, and Collin Sexton—along with the addition of Jaden Hardy via a trade, provide versatility and scoring punch. However, questions linger about how these moves translate to defensive impact, especially on the perimeter against high-usage wings and guards. Former players and analysts have offered mixed opinions on whether the current group can sustain championship-level defense without further upgrade.
From a strategic standpoint, the Lakers may consider prioritizing a high-caliber wing defender who can switch across multiple positions and provide reliable contesting without sacrificing offensive spacing. If a blockbuster trade remains out of reach due to asset limitations, complementary options—such as players who can contribute immediately on defense while growing into offensive roles—could help bridge the gap while the roster continues to develop.
In related notes, Doncic reportedly expressed enthusiasm about the changes the Lakers implemented this offseason, signaling a potential buy-in to the team’s new direction and supporting cast. As the season approaches, Dallas’s star player’s perspective is often cited as a barometer for how well the revamped roster will be received on the floor.
To summarize, the Lakers are pursuing defensive upgrades to complement their offensive firepower, with Herbert Jones representing one of the more high-profile targets linked to the team. Market dynamics and asset constraints will continue to shape whether a deal can be struck and how the defensive identity of the team evolves in the upcoming season.
