Top 5 perimeter defenders are still available for the Lakers before the Herb Jones trade deadline


this week, LA Lakers Head coach JJ Redick met with LeBron James and Luka Doncic to call out their defense. While the Lakers will certainly benefit if their two superstars step it up on that end of the court, they could also help themselves by acquiring a piece or two to help out on the perimeter defense.

With less than two months until the trade deadline, the Lakers have plenty of time to make their move to improve their depth this season. Here are five players who can contribute to the purple and gold team on the defensive end.

Top 5 perimeter defenders are still available for the Lakers before the trade deadline

Herb Jones

New Orleans Pelicans Media Day - Source: GettyNew Orleans Pelicans Media Day - Source: Getty
New Orleans Pelicans Media Day – Source: Getty

This month, trade rumors have linked New Orleans Pelicans forward Herb Jones to the Lakers. In the midst of another woeful season for the Pelicans, the 6-foot-7 Jones has stood out, thanks to his defensive prowess.

By Andre Hunter

NBA: Charlotte Hornets at Cleveland Cavaliers - Source: ImageNBA: Charlotte Hornets at Cleveland Cavaliers - Source: Image
NBA: Charlotte Hornets at Cleveland Cavaliers – Source: Image

According to Evan Sidery of Forbes , the Lakers view Cleveland Cavaliers veteran De’Andre Hunter as a “viable backup plan” should their pursuit of Jones fall through. Aside from providing quality defense on the perimeter, Hunter is also a consistent scorer, averaging 15.3 points per game this season.

Keon Ellis

Denver Nuggets v Sacramento Kings - Source: GettyDenver Nuggets v Sacramento Kings - Source: Getty
Denver Nuggets v Sacramento Kings – Source: Getty

As reported by Dan Woike of The AthleticSacramento Kings guard Keon Ellis could find himself on the trade block. The Lakers could use his skill set on defense, though they might have to pay the price for a protected first-round pick.

Dyson Daniels

NBA: Philadelphia 76ers at Atlanta Hawks - Source: ImageNBA: Philadelphia 76ers at Atlanta Hawks - Source: Image
NBA: Philadelphia 76ers at Atlanta Hawks – Source: Image

The ceiling is high for Dyson Daniels, who won the Most Improved Player award last season after showing how prolific he can be in both attack and defence. While his three-point shooting percentage has taken a hit this season, Daniels remains one of the most feared pickpockets in the league, averaging 2.0 steals per night.

Jose Alvarado

Portland Trail Blazers v New Orleans Pelicans - Source: GettyPortland Trail Blazers v New Orleans Pelicans - Source: Getty
Portland Trail Blazers v New Orleans Pelicans – Source: Getty

Another guard who specializes in steals is Jose Alvarado, who has made a name for himself blinding ball handlers in the backcourt. Alvarado has spent the last four years in New Orleans and could take things to the next level by joining a playoff contender like the Lakers.