Why the Lakers shouldn't end the Gabe Vincent experiment

Gabe Vincent was a standout member of the Miami Heat's run to the NBA Finals last season. Following Tyler Herro's injury-forced absence from Miami's rotation, he assumed a starting role. He joined the Los Angeles Lakers as a free agent during the offseason. However, due to his own injury struggles, has only made five appearances for his new team.

Now, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, the Lakers are willing to part ways with the veteran guard.

"Let it be known that Los Angeles has also been including injured point guard Gabe Vincent, who’s played just five games due to a knee injury, in various trade talks, sources said," Fischer reported.

Vincent hasn't had the opportunity to show what he brings to the Lakers rotation. He was acquired to provide a scoring and playmaking punch off the bench. Trading him now, so soon after acquiring him, would be a move born out of desperation. After all, the Lakers want to improve. They want to contend for a championship. Vincent could help them when healthy. 

During the 2023 postseason, Vincent averaged 12.7 points, 3.5 assists and 1.4 rebounds per game. He shot 40.2% from the field and 37.8% from 3-point range. He is the ideal bench guard if you can surround him with talented wings and a serviceable big man. 

Furthermore, the Lakers could struggle to find a player of a similar talent and experience level for the same price point. Vincent signed a three-year deal with the Purple and Gold worth $33M. There aren't many guards earning that low of a salary that can say they've been part of an NBA Finals run. Given the talent the Lakers have within the roster, the experience Vincent brings is likely highly valued. He's another veteran who understands what it takes to compete at the highest level.

Yet, the Lakers' urge to be competitive will likely lead them to make some tough decisions. Having missed almost the entire first half of the season, Vincent is an easy option to throw into a trade as a salary-matching tool. Yet, he could be the player the Lakers miss most when the playoffs begin. 

Last summer, Rob Pelinka changed the Lakers' fortunes with some exceptional work in the trade market. Expecting lightning to strike twice is wishful thinking. Vincent could be a huge addition once he returns to fitness. Moving him now, without seeing what he brings to the team, would be incredibly short-sighted and could emerge as a mistake later in the season.