The Los Angeles Lakers have been quietly circling the NBA trade market like sharks sensing blood in the water. With defensive lapses plaguing their season and a roster crying out for a shutdown specialist, the Lakers’ front office, led by Rob Pelinka, has zeroed in on the perfect remedy: New Orleans Pelicans’ forward Herb Jones. As trade deadline whispers turn into roars, Jones emerges as the hidden weapon that could catapult the Lakers back into true contention. At 27 years old, with a contract that’s a steal and skills that scream “elite defender,” Jones isn’t just an addition—he’s a game-changer.
Imagine this: a 6-foot-7 wing with a terrifying 7-foot wingspan, capable of locking down the league’s top scorers like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander or Luka Dončić’s perimeter threats. Jones isn’t your average role player; he’s a defensive menace who ranks in the top three for steals per game at 1.7, sits in the 93rd percentile for deflections, and the 96th percentile for forced turnovers, per Crafted NBA data. His ability to create chaos on the perimeter—swiping passes, disrupting drives, and turning defense into instant offense—addresses the Lakers’ glaring weakness. Currently languishing at 26th in defensive efficiency despite a top-tier offense, Los Angeles has been exposed in recent losses, with breakdowns allowing opponents to feast in transition and from beyond the arc.
But Jones isn’t a one-trick pony. Offensively, he fits seamlessly into a star-studded lineup without demanding the ball. Averaging 9.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists, he provides just enough scoring punch, highlighted by his career 36.4% three-point shooting. Picture him spacing the floor alongside LeBron James, Luka Dončić, and Austin Reaves—hitting open threes off drive-and-kicks while providing the defensive backbone that allows the Lakers’ big guns to focus on what they do best: dominate.
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Not On Herb: New Orleans’ beloved third-year pro has earned First …
nba.comNot On Herb: New Orleans’ beloved third-year pro has earned First …
Recent reports confirm the Lakers’ aggressive pursuit. According to ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel, “Herb Jones is another player high atop the Lakers’ trade wish list, especially ahead of this year’s trade deadline. The Lakers have already held conversations with the Pelicans about Jones’ availability.” While New Orleans isn’t eager to part with their defensive anchor, the buzz suggests the Lakers are pushing hard. Insider Dan Woike of The Athletic noted that the Pelicans are “not inclined to move Jones,” but the Lakers’ need is dire, and trade talks could heat up as the deadline nears.
Jones’ contract only sweetens the deal. Fresh off a three-year, $68 million extension signed in July 2025, he’s locked in through 2028-29 with a player option for 2029-30, totaling a five-year, $97 million commitment. His current $13.9 million salary is a bargain for his impact, making him one of the most cost-effective stars in the league. For the Lakers, who have limited assets—including just one tradable first-round pick (2030 or 2031), young talent like Dalton Knecht, and expiring contracts—this could be the splash they need without gutting the future.
Analysts across the league are already salivating at the fit. The Ringer’s Bill Simmons recently proposed a package: “I would trade Herb Jones right now… [Dalton] Knecht, [Maxi] Kleber and a 2031 first. Call it in.” While Siegel reports that such an offer might fall short, the sentiment is clear: Jones is the archetype every contender craves. Lakers beat reporter Jovan Buha echoed this in September, stating, “If it’s a Herb Jones, I think they have a real shot. Maybe I’d pick them to beat OKC.” Even The Athletic’s Sam Amick highlighted the Lakers’ search for a “3-and-D-type guy” like Jones or Keon Ellis.
The urgency is palpable, especially after a recent slide fueled by defensive woes. LeBron James’ agent, Rich Paul, didn’t mince words on The Ringer’s Game Over podcast: “I personally don’t think the Lakers are good enough to be contenders, not right now. I don’t think they have enough to get to the Western Conference Finals.” Those words, once provocative, now ring true as the Lakers grapple with injuries and inconsistencies, including Austin Reaves’ recent calf strain sidelining him for up to four weeks.
If the Lakers pull this off—overcoming the high asking price and competition from teams with deeper draft capital—Jones could be the catalyst that transforms them from pretenders to predators. His lockdown defense would neutralize elite scorers, his length would deter drives, and his shooting would keep defenses honest. The Western Conference, already stacked with athletic juggernauts like OKC and Minnesota, isn’t prepared for a fortified Lakers squad.
As the trade deadline looms, one thing is certain: Herb Jones represents the hidden weapon the Lakers have been missing. If Pelinka can seal the deal, the league better brace itself—this addition could redefine the balance of power in the NBA.