LA TEAMS TRADE THREE!
The Los Angeles Lakers acquired forward/center Mike Muscala from the Los Angeles Clippers for center Ivica Zubac and forward Michael Beasley.
What does it give the Los Angeles Lakers
Of all of the deadline deals, this one might be the most surprising. The two LA teams may be fighting for the same playoff spot but that did not prevent them from completing a trade. In Muscala, the Lakers get exactly what they need: a 'stretch-4' who can also play center if needed. He should help them, although he is not exactly the power forward Lakers fans were hoping to get behind at this time (see Davis, Anthony).
What does it give the Los Angeles Clippers
For the Clippers, Muscala just arrived from Philadelphia and will be replaced by Zubac and Beasley. Zubac is still very young and could become the Clippers' starting center for the long term, while Beasley can play both forward positions and scores bushels of points in streaks. This trade seems like a good fit for both LA teams, but it is still very surprising to see them actually trade with each other.
Fantasy impact
Muscala will play an important role with the Lakers, so his fantasy value should remain similar to what he had in Philadelphia. Zubac is the clear winner here, as he goes from a three-headed center monster on the Lakers to a great situation with the Clippers (veteran Marcin Gortat will be waived, clearing the way for Zubac). As for Beasley, he is a fantasy wild card. Always has been, always will be.
