The Los Angeles Lakers remain in the spotlight with only a few weeks until the NBA trade deadline. There are currently many names circulating different ideas and options. One that has raised noise is Toronto Raptors guard Dennis Schroder. Schroder played for the Lakers in 2021 and this past season. The on-and-off relationship between the Lakers and Schroder may be headed to another reunion, as Los Angeles has shown interest.
Lakers Trade Rumors: LA Interested in Reunion With Former Guard
Lakers are reportedly interested in yet another Dennis Schröder return https://t.co/JcDugluRcI
— Silver Screen and Roll (@LakersSBN) January 23, 2024
Lakers’ History With Schröder
The connection between the Lakers and Schroder has been ongoing over the past several years. First, he joined the team in 2020-2021, claiming a starting role, which showed to bring success alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. But the Lakers ultimately fell to the Phoenix Suns in the first round of the playoffs. From a poor performance out of Schröder to Davis getting injured, Los Angeles couldn’t surpass the struggles in the first round. Ultimately, this led to Schroder signing with the Boston Celtics in the offseason. He had reportedly turned down a four-year, $84 million extension following the disappointing loss to the Suns.
After his stint with the Celtics and a short run where a trade landed him with the Houston Rockets, Schroder ultimately landed back with the Lakers for the 2022-23 season. His productivity jumped tremendously that year as he helped lead the team to their far playoff run. Schroder was the one to hit the clutch three in the Play-In tournament game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Schroder was in his natural role as a backup guard with the Lakers, playing pick-and-roll efficiently with James and Davis.
Schroder With the Raptors
Schroder was on a one-year veteran’s minimum, and with his productive game, he wanted to secure a bag somewhere else. Following the 2023 offseason, he ultimately signed a two-year, $25 million contract with the Raptors. Schroder spent this season playing with them so far, averaging 13.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game.
Now that Toronto has made a trade in moving Pascal Siakam to the Indiana Pacers, it’s not out of reach if they want to explore more options. It seems to be that the Raptors want to be in rebuild mode around the stars that they’ve acquired. That includes Scottie Barnes from the 2021 draft class, RJ Barrett, and Immanuel Quickley from this season’s blockbuster trade with the New York Knicks.
The Last Word
With the Lakers targeting several players, as much as a third time around for Schroder seems almost comical, it makes sense. The Lakers need a backup point guard, as Gabe Vincent has been dealing with injuries that have sidelined him. He also fits the mold well with how the team runs their offense. We’ve seen the productiveness before with him working alongside James and Davis. The chemistry and energy Schroder brings on the floor have proven successful for Los Angeles. Schroder gives that defensive consistency and is a player who understands and excels in his role. Keep an eye on this potential reunion for the remaining few weeks of the NBA trade deadline.
