It is no secret that the Los Angeles Lakers are looking to deal away a handful of their young players before the Trade deadline in February. The Lakers aim to free some space in their salary cap to have the ability to sign big names in the 2018 free agency.
Jordan Clarkson is one of the rising talents the Lakers are planning to trade. The purple and gold franchise welcomed Clarkson nearly four years ago. The Lakers traded for the former Mizzou standout after the Washington Wizards selected him with the 46th pick in 2014 NBA Draft.
Since Clarkson joined the Lakers, he has proven his worth as a reliable bench piece.
In all his seasons with the squad, he has averaged double-digits in scoring. At the moment, he is putting up close to 14 points each night.
It is unknown right now which teams are favorites to acquire Clarkson from the Lakers. However, a graphic posted by theScore on their social media accounts may have revealed the frontrunners in the Jordan Clarkson sweepstakes.
Portland Trail Blazers
The Portland Trail Blazers are undoubtedly playoff contenders. They are currently fifth in the Western Conference standings with their 22-18 record. But for them to compete with the best in the West, they must better their offense. So far, they only have three players scoring in double-digits per outing this season.
These are Damian Lillard, C.J. McCollum, and Jusuf Nurkic. Perhaps this is the reason why they are part of trade discussions featuring Los Angeles Lakers guard Jordan Clarkson. The 25-year-old can help the trio on offense and make the Blazers much more potent on that end of the floor.
Detroit Pistons
Meanwhile, the Detroit Pistons were dragged into the Jordan Clarkson trade talks because they are in need of bench scoring, a forte of the Los Angeles Lakers guard.
In the present season, The Pistons are relying heavily on their starting unit when it comes to offensive production. All four of Detroit's best scorers are starters, including their best defensive player, center Andre Drummond.
New Orleans Pelicans
Similar to the Detroit Pistons, the New Orleans Pelicans could improve their bench scoring.
That is why it is possible that they would inquire about a trade for Jordan Clarkson.
The Pelicans' starting lineup is full of talent as it features the likes of Anthony Davis, DeMarcus Cousins, and Rajon Rondo. Though their group of reserves can use someone like Clarkson, who has thrived as a scorer from the bench for the Los Angeles Lakers.
