Lakers inquire about Jones! Knecht receives no interest: once tried to package him with expiring contracts to get immediate contributors

On January 24th Beijing time, according to insider Sidery, throughout the trade window, several teams have consistently sought information from the New Orleans Pelicans about All-Star defensive wing Herbert Jones.The Los Angeles Lakers, Indiana Pacers, and Detroit Pistons have all recently contacted the Pelicans about the potential trade of Jones.To get the Pelicans to seriously entertain trading Jones, they require a proposal that contains a large number of valuable assets.

So far this season, Jones has played 23 games for the Pelicans, averaging 9.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, with a shooting percentage of 39.4% and a three-point percentage of 33.3%. Earlier reports indicated that the Pelicans have set a high asking price for Jones. The Lakers are indeed eager to acquire a defensive specialist like Jones. Previously, ESPN reporter Tim Bontemps noted that the Lakers’ defense is lacking. To some extent, their success in clutch moments has masked these issues.

“The Lakers have a 13-2 record in clutch-time games this season, the best in the league. However, this late-game success somewhat conceals their true overall level. Moreover, the Lakers currently have a negative net point differential and rank 25th in defensive efficiency, only ahead of teams like the Nets, Pelicans, Kings, Wizards, and Jazz who are near the bottom. With such defensive performance, they are far from competing for home-court advantage in the playoffs, or even considered a fringe championship contender. This is why sources expect the Lakers to focus on bolstering their perimeter defense before the trade deadline.”

Additionally,Sidery also reported that the Lakers have found almost no trade interest from other teams regarding Knecht. The Lakers had planned to package Knecht with expiring contracts in hopes of acquiring a player who could significantly enhance their rotation strength.

As the 17th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft first round, Knecht is averaging 7.7 points per game this season with a three-point shooting percentage of 36.4%.