The Los Angeles Lakers are going through a tough rebuilding process especially after the exit of Kobe Bryant. With the future of the team resting on the shoulders of young stars D'Angelo Russell, Jordan Clarkson and Larry Nance, Jr, the transition has been a difficult process. As former Golden State Warriors coach Luke Walton attempts instill a winning culture in the group, veteran guidance remains lacking. Will a Rudy Gay trade to the Los Angeles Lakers be the answer to this concern?
The Sacramento Kings had been one of the most problematic basketball squads in the league this season. With the sudden move to sign a DeMarcus Cousins trade this NBA season, it looks like the group could also be heading to a rebuilding phase. While the plans of the Sacramento Kings remain to be seen, it looks like the group would have to move forward with a Rudy Gay trade in mind.
Rumors are rife that a Rudy Gay trade could happen anytime soon. This stemmed from the veteran star's comments in the offseason where he indicated his plans to exit the then DeMarcus Cousins team due to locker room and court issues. The 30-year-old small forward also shared in earlier interviews that he wants to be with a more stable basketball team in the future.
"I'm not the first person to have a contract situation, so it's just going out there and playing basketball. I've been doing it since I was eight. So that's not hard to do," shared Rudy Gay of the NBA trade rumors surrounding him at the time. He further commented, "I'm just really trying to find happiness and a place where I can play at a high level and win."
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers are looking for a reliable mentor to guide D'Angelor Russell and the other young stars in the roster. Right now, the leadership role is expected to be fulfilled by the second-round pick. While the parties involved in a Rudy Gay trade to the Los Angeles Lakers have yet to comment on the matter, fans hope that a veteran could be signed to help the young players adjust in the league.
"D'Angelo is playing the toughest (position) in the NBA in the point guard position. What I want to see is just for him to lead a little bit more. Just be a leader and take even more responsibility in terms of guiding. Sometimes when everybody is young, nobody wants to hold guys accountable. They want to be their friend," said Magic Johnson of his expectations from D'Angelo Russell.
