With the Lakers showing real signs of life through major adversity following the disastrous 2-10 start, fans (and players, surely) have been hoping the front office would come through with some help for a roster of game-but-limited guys? For LeBron James, who has been balling out to keep the team afloat in the absence of Anthony Davis? Especially now that Davis could be back over the next week or so?

Monday, the Lakers pulled the trigger, reportedly agreeing to send Kendrick Nunn and three second round picks to the Washington Wizards for forward Rui Hachimura, the 9th pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.

Is it a good deal? One that can move the needle for the Lakers as they try to climb back into the playoff race?

Well, if nothing else, it's a good balancing of the roster. The Lakers need size and athleticism up front (with some scoring punch) much more than they need Nunn, especially once Austin Reaves and Lonnie Walker IV are healthy and back. Hachimura is a restricted free agent following this season, so the deal also gives the Lakers control over a young player who has shown signs of real talent amidst availability and consistency issues in Washington.

The big thing for the Lakers: In LA, Hachimura doesn't arrive with the expectations of a lottery pick. He's just a dude they acquired with some second round picks and a very expendable player. If the Lakers can create a role for him, accentuate what he does well and hide what he doesn't? They'll have made a great deal. Hachimura, physically at least, is exactly what you look for in a modern NBA forward. It's just never quite translated on either side of the floor.

So what's next?

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky

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