Lakers Explore Low-Cost Backcourt Help, Register Interest in Pelicans’ Jose Alvarado

Overview

• Multiple outlets report the Lakers are among the teams, alongside the Knicks, Rockets and Spurs, to inquire about trading for Jose Alvarado.
• The Pelicans’ expected asking price is multiple second-round picks, and Alvarado holds a $4.5 million player option for next season.
• Given limited cap flexibility, any Lakers offer would likely include outgoing salary, with reports mentioning players such as Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent and Maxi Kleber to match money.
• ESPN reporting indicates Los Angeles has canvassed teams about flipping its 2031 or 2032 first-round pick for multiple earlier firsts to increase tradable assets.
• League coverage frames Alvarado as a defense-first bench upgrade as the Feb. 5 deadline nears, and no deal has been finalized.