The Los Angeles Lakers are once again making waves in trade rumors, with whispers of a potential plan to re-acquire Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP), a key piece of their 2020 championship run. Coupled with discussions of a possible D’Angelo Russell trade, Lakers Nation is buzzing about how this move could reshape the team for another title push. Could bringing back KCP be the Lakers’ smartest move yet?

Why Caldwell-Pope Makes Sense for the Lakers

KCP’s value to the Lakers during their 2020 championship campaign was undeniable. As a 3-and-D wing, he was a reliable shooter from deep and a strong perimeter defender, both of which are areas where the current Lakers could use a boost. Since leaving the Lakers, KCP has only improved, becoming a consistent contributor for the Denver Nuggets and proving himself as one of the best role players in the league.

Here’s why bringing KCP back could be a genius move:

1. Elite Perimeter Shooting: KCP shot over 42% from three in the 2022-2023 season, making him a perfect fit for a Lakers team that thrives when spacing the floor for LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
2. Perimeter Defense: The Lakers could use KCP’s defensive prowess to lock down opposing guards and wings, an area that has been a challenge for them this season.
3. Chemistry and Familiarity: As a former Laker, KCP is already familiar with the system and has chemistry with LeBron and AD, ensuring a seamless transition back into the lineup.

How D’Angelo Russell Fits Into the Plan

If the Lakers want to bring back KCP, they’ll likely need to involve a trade, and D’Angelo Russell could be the key piece in making it happen. While Russell has had moments of brilliance this season, questions about his consistency, fit, and playoff reliability persist. Trading him for a more reliable, complementary player like KCP might be the upgrade the Lakers need.

Proposed Trade Idea

• Lakers Receive: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, additional role player (e.g., backup guard/wing)
• Nuggets Receive: D’Angelo Russell, draft capital or young assets

This trade would provide the Lakers with a player who fits their needs while allowing the Nuggets to add another playmaker in Russell, potentially boosting their depth at the guard position.

Why This Could Be the Best Move for the Lakers

• Enhanced Depth and Balance: KCP’s defensive and shooting abilities make him a perfect fit for the Lakers’ current roster. His presence would balance the lineup, allowing Austin Reaves, LeBron, and AD to operate more freely.
• Playoff Reliability: KCP has proven he can perform on the biggest stage, something that Russell has struggled with at times. Adding a battle-tested veteran could give the Lakers a stronger edge in the postseason.
• Financial Flexibility: Depending on the structure of the deal, the Lakers could potentially gain more cap flexibility by moving Russell’s contract.

Challenges of Re-Acquiring KCP

While the idea sounds great in theory, there are challenges:

1. Nuggets’ Perspective: Denver may be reluctant to part with KCP, given his importance to their own title defense. They would need to see significant value in Russell or other assets involved in the trade.
2. Lakers’ Depth: Trading Russell would leave the Lakers needing another playmaker, so the deal would need to include a backup guard or additional piece to fill that gap.

Final Thoughts

Re-acquiring Kentavious Caldwell-Pope could be a genius move for the Lakers, especially if they can make the trade without sacrificing too much depth or flexibility. His s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 set perfectly complements the Lakers’ core, and his championship pedigree would bring valuable experience to the team.

Whether or not this plan comes to fruition, the Lakers’ willingness to explore moves that optimize their roster shows their commitment to contending for a championship. KCP’s return would be a nostalgic yet strategic move—and possibly the final piece needed for another Lakers title run.