The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly interested in trading point guard Ronnie Price, while power forward Jordan Hill has already generated interest on the trading block according to a reliable league source.
The Lakers, who claimed their fourth win of the season after beating the East-leading Toronto Raptors 129-122 at Staples Center, are leaning on dealing away Price before the trade deadline.
Averaging 3.8 points and 3.8 assists in 20 minutes of playing time, Price has served as the playmaker for the Lakers second unit's through the first 16 games. Price was a training camp invitee for the Lakers, but his defense and decision-making skills impressed Lakers head coach Byron Scott.
But with the Lakers looking for an upgrade at the swingman position, the Lakers might use Price in a package to land a decent young player that will help them win more games this season.
The Lakers suddenly become interested in moving Price to give rookie guard Jordan Clarkson more playing time at the point guard, while there are also reports that the team is close to adding former Dallas Mavericks playmaker Gal Mekel.
Meanwhile, the Lakers could also move budding big man Jordan Hill in exchange for a young impact player or assets that will help the franchise speed up their rebuilding process.
According to Basketball Insiders writer Jabari Davis, the Houston Rockets emerge as a possible suitor for the service of the 6-foot-11 Hill, who is averaging career-high 13.5 points, 9.5 rebounds and 1.0 block in 31 minutes per contest. Davis believes Hill would provide the Rockets with energy off the bench and some depth at the power forward and center position.
"One intriguing frontcourt remedy that hasn't been mentioned for these Rockets could be a return of Jordan Hill. Hill is having a career-year for the Los Angeles Lakers (13.7 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 31.3 MPG), and has a deal that expires after next season."
"While not the impact player that Howard is, Hill could be used as a reserve at either power forward or center. He's an active body on the boards, isn't a guy you necessarily have to call or design plays for, and he does appear far more confident in his face-up game and on the offensive end in general recently."
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