Although the Lakers’ fans (and brass) may prefer an acquisition that lands them a legitimate third star, like Bradley Beal (or, preposterously, Kevin Durant), the current iteration of the squad is so far off from true contention and without the right to retain their own first round draft choice in 2024 that they probably ought to improve the roster on the edges, regardless of whether they are able to make a transaction that really raises the team’s ceiling. With the advent of the play-in tournament, more teams than ever have convinced themselves of a chance at a run at a championship some sweet, sweet playoff revenue.