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Lakers Target Kings Guard Keon Ellis for Defensive Boost

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at 3:37 GMT by Heavy.com
      Locales: California, Kentucky, Texas, UNITED STATES

Los Angeles, CA - February 3rd, 2026 - The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly focusing their trade interests on Sacramento Kings guard Keon Ellis, signaling a clear prioritization of defensive upgrades as the February trade deadline approaches. NBA insider Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer first reported the Lakers' strong interest, identifying Ellis as a "top target" for the struggling team. This pursuit isn't merely a superficial glance at potential roster additions; it highlights a fundamental shift in the Lakers' thinking and a recognition of the glaring deficiencies that have plagued them this season.

For a franchise steeped in championship pedigree, the Lakers' current defensive woes are particularly concerning. While offensive firepower isn't lacking - with LeBron James still a force, Anthony Davis capable of dominance, and D'Angelo Russell providing offensive spark - consistent defensive execution has been absent. Opponents are regularly exceeding their season averages against the Lakers, often exposing a lack of perimeter defense and rim protection. Keon Ellis, a 6'5" guard, represents a potential antidote to these issues.

Ellis isn't a scoring threat projected to become a primary option. His averages of 6.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game, while respectable, don't immediately scream "star potential." However, his value lies almost entirely in his defensive capabilities. Scouts consistently praise his physicality, tenacity, and willingness to embrace the dirty work. He's known for harassing ball-handlers, disrupting passing lanes, and providing relentless pressure on the perimeter - qualities the Lakers desperately need. His steal numbers suggest a player with active hands and a knack for anticipating plays, even if it doesn't always translate into the box score.

But acquiring Ellis won't be straightforward. Sacramento views the young guard as a crucial component of their future, a developing player with significant upside. The Kings, fresh off a deep playoff run last season, are building a core around De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis and see Ellis fitting seamlessly into their long-term plans. They've invested in his development and are unlikely to simply give him away, especially mid-season. Reports from Sacramento indicate they highly value Ellis's work ethic and believe he's on the cusp of a breakout season.

The Lakers, therefore, face a significant hurdle. To even initiate serious trade talks, they'll need to offer a package that Sacramento deems acceptable. This is where the salary cap and the Lakers' existing roster become complicating factors. LeBron James's contract, while impactful, is largely untradeable. Anthony Davis also carries a substantial cap hit. D'Angelo Russell, while a valuable offensive player, might be the most readily movable asset, but his value may not be sufficient to secure Ellis on his own. The Lakers could explore packaging Russell with draft compensation, potentially including their 2027 first-round pick, but that would represent a significant sacrifice for a player still relatively unproven.

The Lakers have been linked to several other potential targets this season, including veteran wing players and established three-and-D specialists. However, focusing on Ellis suggests they believe his defensive impact outweighs his offensive limitations, and that his potential for growth is worth the investment. They may be betting on their coaching staff's ability to unlock his offensive game and integrate him into a system that maximizes his strengths.

Ultimately, the success of any trade for Keon Ellis hinges on Sacramento's willingness to negotiate and the Lakers' ability to construct a compelling offer. The next few weeks promise to be filled with speculation and maneuvering as both teams attempt to improve their rosters and position themselves for a strong playoff push. The Lakers' pursuit of Ellis isn't just about acquiring a player; it's a statement about their priorities and a clear indication that defense will be the focal point of their efforts to return to championship contention.