The LA Lakers are expected to be in the thick of the trade rumor mill leading up to the February deadline, having needs on the defensive end.

The Spurs have surpassed the Thunder for the No. 1 spot in the NBA power rankings, as the Lakers continue to stutter.

The Los Angeles Lakers have been predicted to add a 3&D wing before the Feb. 5 NBA trade deadline, filling their biggest roster void.

Detroit is the more up-and-coming team. The Pistons also lead the East with a 27-9 record, and Cade Cunningham is a legitimate star. Detroit will need more talent (though Jalen Duren helps), but the Pistons do have youth and a team that is on a 60-win pace this season.

Luka Doncic and LeBron James lead LA Lakers’ charge to beat Memphis twice in three days as Oklahoma lose to Phoenix.