Maybe We Will, Maybe We Won't

The Lakers are a cohesive, winning unit right now, if a little battle bruised. It's that combination of all important factors that mean we shouldn't expect to see any significant roster changes around the Staples Centre before tomorrow's trade dead-line slams shut.
It's also for the same reasons, that a lot of Laker fans with myself included, don't want to see change to a team that still looks like winning it's second championship in a row.

None of this is much surprise of course, for two reasons. Firstly the Lakers did some big business in the summer with the acquisition of Ron-Ron from the Rockets and the departure of Trevor Ariza in the opposite direction in what was supposed to be a move that would freshen up and improve the champions. I think we can all agree this has worked. Secondly, finances. As we all know the Lakers are paying a large amount of Luxury Tax, partly due to the Artest and L.O. signings. Adding to this would not amuse Jerry Buss who has already spoken of cost cutting and belt tightening. So with no headline grabbing moves seemingly apparent, can we expect any movement?

There's no secret of the Lakers admiration for Bulls' guard Kirk Hinrich, apparently the Celtics have their eye on him as well, they're always trying to ruin our fun. ESPN predicts this trade would see Jordan Farmar, Adam Morrison and Josh Powell depart or, a three team trade that would see Luke Walton and Sasha go with Sasha ending up in Portland. This second option no longer seems viable as Luke is injured again (get better soon man, we love you). Either way this trade would have further implication on the salary cap and therefore is most likely to happen when this season is over and we're celebrating another championship (that wont jinx it will it?). By then Fish, Josh Powell and DJ Illunga will be out of contract and Jordan, Shannon and Adam Morrison will be restricted free agents. This will give the Lakers more financial manoeuvrability and will also give PJ more time to decide if either Farmar or Brown are Fish's heir apparent to leading the triangle.

On a side note, Kobe is also a restricted free agent in the summer but unless something drastic happens, everyone is expecting him to renew his contract.

So, it doesn't look like much will happen, especially anything significant. Mitch may tweak things a bit. Don't be surprised if he does and don't be surprised if he doesn't. We'll be able to tell by tomorrow!