NBA Trade Deadline Day: Why the Lakers Did Nothing, What Comes Next, and Reviewing the Big Trades

It was always the most likely outcome, based on the assets they had to offer teams around the league, that the Lakers would ultimately do little-to-nothing on Thursday's NBA Trade Deadline day. And that's what happened. While blockbusters abounded around the Association, the Lakers were silent. Not even a minor move to clear a roster spot. Why? What does it say about the state of the team and the franchise that a decent trade to help improve a flailing squad was unattainable? What does it mean for the rest of this season, and then the offseason? What about the buyout market? Is there any chance the Lakers can make a real improvement when veterans start hitting the free agent market after their contracts are bought out? Maybe, but don't hold your breath. 1, buyout guys generally don't have much impact regardless of what team they join. 2, this crop of available players could be pretty thin. 3, is a ring chasing vet likely to hitch his wagon to a sub-.500 Lakers team? Now that it's over, maybe the Lakers can just focus on what's in front of them, understanding that for better or for worse - mostly to this point, worse - this is the team. The cavalry isn't coming. Maybe that helps focus them. Maybe. Finally, who wins the big Simmons-for-Harden swap? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15” and you’ll get 15% off your next order. PrizePicks Don’t hesitate, check out PrizePicks.com and use promo code: “NBA” or go to your app store and download the app today. PrizePicks is daily fantasy made easy! Shopify Go to shopify.com/lockedonnba for a FREE fourteen-day trial and get full access to Shopify’s entire suite of features. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices