NBA Rumors: Lakers Showing Trade Interest In 3 Veteran Guards

The Los Angeles Lakers are looking at a backcourt boost before the trade deadline, and they have their eyes on a few veteran guards whose names have been prominent in the rumor mill. 

According to Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report, the Lakers are looking at Mike Conley, Fred VanVleet and Eric Gordon.

VanVleet is about to turn 29, has championship pedigree, and would be a great fit with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Their interest in the Toronto Raptors' team leader is summarized here. VanVleet will become a free agent at season's end and is looking for a big long-term deal. 

Mike Conley, 35, would come a lot cheaper than VanVleet, notes Pincus. "Conley's contract is favorable, with (only) $14.3 million of $24.4 million guaranteed next season... While the younger VanVleet holds broader appeal, Conley would undoubtedly come at a lower price for teams lacking (or unwilling to part with) draft assets."

He also names the Los Angeles Clippers and Minnesota Timberwolves as being suitors of the Utah Jazz veteran guard. 

And while his production has slowed from his younger days, Conley is still an extremely dependable point guard. 

As for Gordon, the Houston Rockets are still holding out hope of garnering a first-round pick in return for the veteran shooter. Pincus says that he seems "likely to be dealt" by the deadline, while also naming the Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks as teams that are targeting him.

Clearly, the Lakers won't be willing to part with one of their vaunted first-rounders (2027, 2029) for Gordon, so their chances of landing him seem remote, unless Houston comes down off their high price.

Photo: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports