The Lakers were briefly involved in rumors of a possible acquisition of Bulls emerging star Jimmy Butler last summer.
Now they could be targeting Butler's Chicago teammate Taj Gibson by dangling guard Nick Young as trade bait, according to Chat Sports.
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"Young has fallen out of Lakers head coach Byron Scott's rotation, and it's clear they're going to try to move him this season," Chat Sports reported. "Los Angeles reportedly inquired about Gibson during the 2013-14 season, but the Bulls weren't interested in what the Lakers were willing to offer for him at the time. However, the Bulls are more willing to part with him now as they have a logjam in their big man rotation and are unable to find playing time for talented first-round pick Bobby Portis. Young would give Chicago some needed long-range shooting and athleticism at the small forward position, and Gibson is the Bulls' best trade piece."
The 30-year-old Gibson is averaging 6.5 points and 5.5 rebounds per game this season for the Bulls. Two years ago, his numbers were 13.0 points per game and 6.8 rebounds, along with 1.4 blocks.
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Young, also 30, had his best season for the Lakers in 2013-14 as well, averaging 17.9 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. This season, the sharpshooter is averaging 9.0 points, 1.7 rebounds and 0.6 assists.
He also is being affected by the Lakers' 3-17 start to the season, having been ejected during the Lakers' 111-91 loss at the Pistons on Sunday. He drew a hard foul in the fourth quarter, took offense and shoved Detroit forward Anthony Tolliver into the stands to get the ejection.
Young is averaging just 19.1 minutes per game, which is the lowest since his rookie season with the Wizards, adding to the notion that Scott is souring on him.
At this point, Los Angeles should consider any trade that helps them move past its horrendous start.
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