Early Look At Possible Moves

After that disappointing loss, a lot of Laker fans are looking for answers. Fortunately, there is the imagining a trade game to create some [false] hope and take away a little bit of the pain of losing this game. [Personal note: This game hurts MUCH more than when I broke up with my ex.]

All of these moves will be assuming that Bynum is back healthy, as I do not know if there is any major trade we could do without a healthy Bynum.

Lakers Trade: Lamar Odom, Chris Mihm, future 1st round draft pick
Miami Trades: Shawn Marion

Rationale: With Gasol and Bynum at the 4 and 5, Marion is a better defender and 3 point shooter than Odom. Marion is also a solid defender. LO enjoys South Beach and had his most productive season there. Furthermore, if the Heat are forced to select Beasely, Odom's 'versatility' and rebounding would make him a better fit at the 4 and a better complement to him. Furthermore, it would cost more to keep Marion after his contract runs out.

Alternate: Pau Gasol instead of Odom in the aforementioned deal.

Rationale: With Bynum in the low post, Marion could stretch the floor and Odom could be a better high post player. Furthermore, Marion is an inevitable upgrade in terms of grit. Gasol would give Miami a talented center and would essentially have a more talented version of the team with which they won a championship.

Lakers Trade: Lamar Odom, future 1st rounder, and an additional player
Clippers Trade: Elton Brand

Rationale: Brand would provide a "banger" that is sorely needed by the Lakers and would be a tremendous upgrade in terms of interior rebounding and "grit." It does not look like Brand will stay with the Clippers and this would give them assets to work with. With the loss of Maggette, LO could be a solid facilitator.

Alternate: Paul Gasol instead of Odom

Rationale: Same on Lakers end, and for the Clippers a possible"twin towers effect" with a talented sf in Thornton and possibly a talented sg Eric Gordon.

Lakers Trade: Lamar Odom, Chris Mihm
Grizzlies Trade: Brian Cardinal, Jason Collins Kyle Lowry, #5 Draft pick

Rationale: Grizzlies get a tangible player and would have a core of Conley, Miller, Gay, Odom, and possibly a center with some upside in the draft. The Lakers get rid of Odom's contract and would get a solid prospect at #5. Kyle Lowry should also motivate Farmar.