The Los Angeles Lakers could solve their perimeter defensive weakness by trading for Aaron Nesmith before the Feb. 5 deadline. Nesmith’s two-way impact just helped the Pacers reach the NBA Finals, but Indiana is facing a gap year. Tyrese Haliburton is out after tearing his Achilles, and Myles Turner left in free agency. The Pacers never want to pay the luxury tax and could look to cash in on Nesmith before he reaches free agency in 2027.
The Lakers signed Marcus Smart to be their defensive stopper, but his biggest impact will be bringing an intensity that the roster lacks. He has struggled to defend on the perimeter and stay on the floor since leaving Boston. There are plenty of reasons for fans to worry, and it may force the Lakers to make an upgrade before the deadline.
Nesmith is the perfect fit. His ability to make shots, defend on the ball, and attack closeouts is exactly what the Lakers need. Fans saw him thrive in the 2025 playoffs, and he would be even better playing off Luka Doncic in Hollywood. The Lakers must wait for the right moment to pounce.
Lakers should trade for Aaron Nesmith before the deadline
Jason Timpf loves the fit, but questions whether the Lakers would be willing to give up the draft capital and necessary pieces to make this move if Nesmith becomes available. The Pacers let Myles Turner walk to avoid the luxury tax, but will be flirting with it next season. Indy is likely over if they extend Benedict Mathurin. The front office may have to choose between the two wings and may opt for the larger return in a Nesmith trade.
The Lakers are all-in on building around Luka after his contract extension. Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart were fine additions, but they need long-term answers. Nesmith shot 43.1 percent from 3-point range last season, and the 25-year-old never shied away from a matchup in the playoffs. He is the perfect fit and on Luka’s timeline.
Nesmith won’t be available after this season. Tyrese Haliburton will return, and the Pacers will look to build a contender around him. Rob Pelinka and the Lakers front office have a short window to make this move happen. Nesmith could let his defense and shooting shine as the Lakers become an annual contender.
LA needs a perimeter stopper if they plan on keeping Doncic and Austin Reaves as their long-term backcourt. They are not finding one late in the draft or via free agency. The Lakers will have to trade for that piece, and Nesmith is the best possible option.
The Los Angeles Lakers have work to do. They need multiple pieces to win a championship with Luka Doncic leading their charge. Aaron Nesmith has two years remaining on his contract and will likely seek a significant raise. Cap concerns could force the Pacers to move on, and LA will be waiting. Rob Pelinka must make this move before Feb. 5, or it won’t happen. It is time to start the calls and close by the deadline.