The Los Angeles Lakers, despite boasting two All-NBA players in LeBron James and Anthony Davis, have been labeled as longshot title contenders for the 2024-25 season. Their performance has been hindered by two major issues: ranking last in offensive rebounding and third-worst in bench scoring during the 2023-24 season. To solve these problems and elevate their championship odds, acquiring John Collins and Jordan Clarkson from the Jazz via trade makes a lot of sense for the Lakers.
The Jazz Hold The Key To The Lakers Season II
John Collins: Offensive Rebounding and Rim-Running
Collins, who averaged 2.3 offensive rebounds per game in the 2023-24 season for the Jazz, can directly address the Lakers’ rebounding struggles. Ranking last in the NBA in offensive rebounds, the Lakers desperately need a player like Collins to create second-chance opportunities. His ability to play as a mobile power forward or rim-running center gives head coach JJ Redick the flexibility to pair him alongside Davis. Collins’ mobility would allow Davis to play as a roving defensive presence, with Collins holding down the paint. In addition, Collins’ shooting ability (career 35.4% from three) can help space the floor, especially in lineups where LeBron and Davis command much of the attention inside.
Offensively, Collins’ athleticism and versatility could also ease some of the burden on LeBron and AD. Whether it’s in pick-and-roll scenarios or catching lobs, Collins thrives in an up-tempo Jazz system, which could inject more life into the Lakers‘ offense. His physicality in the post could make him a threat in isolation and put pressure on opposing defenses, which have otherwise been able to collapse on the Lakers’ stars.
Jordan Clarkson: Bench Scoring and Playmaking
The Lakers’ bench scoring ranked third-worst during the 2023-24 season, an issue that Clarkson, the 2020-21 NBA Sixth Man of the Year, can solve. Clarkson has been a consistent scoring threat for the Utah Jazz, averaging over 17 points per game during the 2023-24 season. His ability to create shots off the dribble, hit clutch threes, and take over games in spurts would immediately improve the Lakers’ second unit.
The Lakers often struggle to maintain leads when LeBron and Davis rest. Clarkson, with his fearless scoring mentality, can carry the offense during these critical moments. Whether it’s driving to the basket or pulling up for threes, his diverse offensive arsenal offers something the Lakers sorely lack—a go-to scorer off the bench who can change the momentum of games.
Clarkson’s experience as a former Laker also helps, as he understands the pressure that comes with playing in Los Angeles. His return to the team would be seamless, both in terms of chemistry and leadership, particularly with younger players like Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura.
Improving Championship Odds
If the Lakers acquire both Collins and/or Clarkson, it would elevate their standing as true title contenders. Offensively, these additions would inject much-needed scoring diversity and rebounding dominance into the team. Defensively, Collins’ athleticism and Clarkson’s decent size (six-foot-four) would ensure the Lakers don’t lose any edge on that end, maintaining their identity as a strong defensive unit.
Collins’ ability to play multiple frontcourt positions allows the Lakers to deploy more versatile lineups, providing Redick with options to experiment based on matchups. He can help space the floor while still being a reliable interior presence. Meanwhile, Clarkson can take over the ball-handling duties in the second unit or even play alongside LeBron, giving the Lakers a dynamic offensive punch.
In a stacked Western Conference, depth and versatility are key. The Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns, and Minnesota Timberwolves all have deep rosters capable of competing with the Lakers. Adding players like Collins and Clarkson—who have proven themselves in high-pressure environments—gives the Lakers the tools they need to stay competitive.
Realistic Trade Scenario
From a trade standpoint, both Collins and Clarkson are attainable. The Jazz, having entered a rebuilding phase, might be inclined to trade the 32-year-old Clarkson for future draft assets. As for Collins, the Jazz acquired him from the Atlanta Hawks but may be open to flipping him for the right package. The Lakers could offer expiring contracts, younger prospects such as Jalen Hood-Schifino, and multiple draft picks to entice Utah.
The Lakers front office has shown a willingness to make aggressive moves during trade deadlines in the past. Acquiring Clarkson and Collins would be a continuation of that trend—making midseason trades to solidify the roster for a playoff run.
The Last Word
To improve their championship odds, the Lakers must address their rebounding and bench scoring deficiencies. Acquiring Collins and/or Clarkson can resolve these issues and strengthen the team’s overall depth and versatility. Collins provides much-needed rebounding and defensive presence in the frontcourt, while Clarkson can ignite the bench offense. Both players would complement LeBron and AD perfectly, transforming the Lakers from longshots into legitimate title contenders.
