NBA Rumors: Lakers, Clippers Competing For Same Players At 2020 Trade Deadline, Knicks Involved

The Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers are not only competing at the top of the Western Conference standings. The rivals are going after the same players in the hours leading up to the 2020 NBA trade deadline.

A target for both teams no longer became an option Wednesday night when Andre Iguodala was dealt to the Miami Heat. That leaves a small number of forwards that are available and could have a significant impact on the playoff race.

On the Clippers-Lakers arms race as we head into the trade deadline: pic.twitter.com/AUGzDUdscM
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) February 5, 2020

Marcus Morris is the best player that the two West favorites are eyeing. The forward leads the New York Knicks with 19.6 points per game. He’s shooting 43.9% from three-point range, which ranks fifth in the NBA.

Morris is a tough defender, ranking 14th among 88 small forwards in ESPN’s defensive real-plus minus. The veteran might be tasked with guarding Kawhi Leonard in a postseason series if he’s traded to the Lakers. As a member of the Clippers, Morris could help defend LeBron James.

Kyle Kuzma is the Lakers’ best trade asset that would realistically be included in a trade. Lakers guard Alex Caruso and Knicks guard Allonzo Trier have been brought up in discussions between the two teams, according to SNY’s Ian Begley.

The Clippers’ 2020 first-round draft pick would be the centerpiece of a potential deal. Moe Harkless and his expiring contract would likely be included in a trade. The Knicks reportedly have an interest in guard Landry Shamet, whom the Clippers have no interest in trading.

Morris is set to become a free agent after this season, currently playing on a one-year, $15 million contract.

With Robert Convingron and Andre Iguodala off the board, the 3-and-D forward market dips somewhat significantly after Marcus Morris. There could be additional pressure now to increase the offer between the Clippers, Lakers and whoever else is in the mix.
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) February 6, 2020

Lakers/Clippers in trade conversations about Knicks' Marcus Morris, sources. NY interested in Kyle Kuzma; would need Danny Green's contract to make work. NY would want to move Green to another team. Clippers willing to part with Mo Harkless, but like Landry Shamet, who NY wants.
— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) February 5, 2020

Markieff Morris, Marcus’ twin brother, is also an option for both Los Angeles teams, according to The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor. The Detroit Pistons forward is averaging 11.0 points and 3.9 rebounds, making 39.3% of the 4.2 threes he attempts per game. Markieff Morris has a $3.36 million player option for the 2020-2021 season.

The Lakers and Clippers are among teams that have spoken with Detroit about Derrick Rose, according to Yahoo Sports’ Vince Goodwill. The point guard is expected to remain with the Pistons.

The Lakers lead the West with a 38-11 record at the trade deadline. The Clippers trail them by three games as the No.2 seed.