Overview
- Chris Haynes reported the Lakers have placed calls to the Pelicans and begun discussions about acquiring Herb Jones.
- A viral United Center clip showed a fan telling Jones he was a Laker, and his surprised reaction underscored that no deal has been made.
- Reporting from Marc Stein and The Athletic’s Dan Woike indicates New Orleans values Jones highly and is unlikely to engage without a substantial return.
- Jones is earning $21 million this season in the first year of a three-year, $67.6 million deal, and Newsweek notes Los Angeles may need to include its only movable first-rounder in 2031 or 2032.
- The Lakers are targeting Jones to address a weak perimeter defense, and his résumé includes 2023-24 All-Defensive First Team honors and 36.5% career three-point shooting.