The Los Angeles Lakers fell short of the championship in the playoffs this year, getting eliminated by the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals. They have a duo that is proven to be championship-caliber in LeBron James and Anthony Davis, so perhaps one big-time move for a difference-maker can help them get back on top and win at the highest level once again. 

This article will discuss a trade scenario that would send Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton to the Los Angeles Lakers. The team would have to send out multiple role players to complete this deal.

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Deandre Ayton

Phoenix Suns Receive: Rui Hachimura (Sign-And-Trade), Malik Beasley, Mo Bamba, No. 17 Pick

This trade could potentially benefit both teams involved and would notably get the Los Angeles Lakers a quality frontcourt partner for Anthony Davis. Here is why both the Lakers and the Suns should consider making this deal.

The Los Angeles Lakers Lean Into Size And Athleticism

The Los Angeles Lakers won the championship in 2020 due to their physicality, athleticism, and defense. We saw the team have some success against the Denver Nuggets by playing a frontcourt of Anthony Davis and Dwight Howard, and to get past the Nuggets again, they might have to take a similar approach. While a lot of teams focus on going small and spacing the floor, the Lakers could get ahead of the opposition by doing the opposite and focusing on their own strengths.