Clearly a controversial trade but one that could benefit both teams. Assumes Victor will sign a 3-year max extension for $32M per year. Could also assume Dennis also signs extension.
Lakers get the best player in the trade but are gambling on Oladipo returning to pre-injury form. The prize is they could end up with three superstars, a starting lineup of Oladipo, THT, LeBron, AD, and Gasol and a deep and talented bench with Kuzma, Caruso, Trezz, PJ, and Morris.
For the Lakers, it’s a trade to get them the third superstar to complement LeBron and AD and a major upgrade defensively. Victor was 3rd team All-NBA and All-Defensive 1st team. Also opens up opportunity for Talen Horton-Tucker to start alongside Oladipo with Caruso and Tucker backing them up.
Tucker would be a fantastic addition to the Lakers with his ability to defend all five positions and his penchant for drilling corner threes. He could give the Lakers more toughness and roster versatility. He could also play small ball center at times for the Lakers and be a more effective stretch five than Gasol.
For the Rockets, they get a great shooting guard under contract and an elite point guard whom they might be able to re-sign. It’s an interesting trade that could be a win for both teams.