West Rumors: Lakers, D’Angelo Russell, Rockets, Suns, Bol Bol

Lakers

Rival NBA executives consider guard D’Angelo Russell and forward Rui Hachimura as top trade candidates starting in the middle of this month, per Michael Scotto of Hoopshype.

Both players signed new deals with the Lakers this past offseason, and any player who fits that description is eligible to be traded starting on Dec. 15.

Russell is having a nice season, though, and the Lakers aren’t actively shopping him, sources told Hoops Wire. Quite the opposite. But they would in the right deal, or at least would be more likely to move Russell than some others. And they just may have to if they want a third consistent scorer in return.

• For instance, the Lakers have continuously been linked to available Bulls guard Zach LaVine, and any such deal would likely cost them Hachimura and either Russell or guard Austin Reaves. But Los Angeles appears to be taking a firm stance on not moving Reaves.
• Guard Gabe Vincent and center Christian Wood, newcomers signed over the summer, could also become trade candidates, Scotto noted.

Rockets

• The Rockets intend to try to upgrade the roster and have plenty of “tradeable contracts” with the likes of inactive guard Victor Oladipo, forward Jeff Green and big man Jock Landale, per Scotto.
• Houston also has plenty of draft picks that could be used in trades, Scotto added.
• Given all that, Yossi Gozlan of HoopsHype said a move would not be difficult for the Rockets. “Between those three guys, you could take back up to $35 million,” Gozlan said. “You could trade for just about anybody. If they want to swing for that type of All-Star, if that player becomes available, they could.”

Suns

• While the Suns added Bradley Beal and several others this past offseason, they may not yet be a finished product. Center Bol Bol, center/forward Chimezie Metu and injured shooting guard Damion Lee all become trade-eligible on Dec. 15.
• Gozlan said: “Maybe you can combine some of them to try to get a slightly more expensive player and clear a roster spot to try to get someone else later.
• League sources told Hoops Wire that the Spurs and Grizzlies are among those who have some interest in Bol.