Lakers swap Nunn and picks for the Wizards’ Hachimura
Sports Illustrated
What Does the Trade do For both teams?
For the Los Angeles Lakers, this trade is a masterpiece for them. Even though Kendrick Nunn isn’t a bad player by any means, he isn’t necessarily what the team needs, as the Lakers have an oversaturation of guards on the team with Beverly, Nunn, Westbrook, Reaves, Walker, and Schroder.
So to bolster the roster for the remainder of the season and fill holes left in the offense and defense without Anthony Davis’ presence down low, it makes sense that the Lakers would look to bring someone in at the forward position.
As for the Washington Wizards losing Rui Hachimura may be a bit of a hit to their talent on the roster, but the team is in need of improvement at the guard position. Currently, of the three point guards on the team, all are averaging below 11 points, and the disparity in talent level between the guards for the Wizards and the rest of their lineup is apparent.
The Wizards have players like Kyle Kuzma, Bradley Beal, and Kristaps Porzingis putting up big numbers, but their efficiency at the one is lacking.
Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Ultimately, this trade is good for both teams, but the Wizards seriously got a losing end of the stick. The Los Angeles Lakers were allowed to fleece the Wizards’ front office for this trade deal because, despite putting up similar stats points-wise, Hachimura is more useful in other aspects.
Standing at about 6-8 in height, Hachimura has an advantage on the defensive end of the floor when compared to Nunn, as well as when playing under the rim. Additionally, Hachimura can jump up there with the big guys and get boards. The Lakers managed to push this deal to happen with just the two players involved and three second-round draft picks.
Ultimately, although Nunn may be a better fit for the current situation in Washington, the Wizards were fleeced in the trade deal.
