Lakers trade rumors 2016: team targeting 76ers' Nerlens Noel?

Nerlens Noel and Jahlil OkaforReuters

The latest wave of Los Angeles Lakers trade rumors has many under the impression that the franchise is looking to snag Nerlens Noel of the Philadelphia 76ers.

According to The Sixer Sense, Noel's team has grown too crowded due to the draft and letting him go might allow the frontcourt to breathe.

The Lakers are reportedly the most interested party that is likely going to fight hard to get Noel. With $30 million to spend, LA might very well splurge it on a top player like Noel.

However, Silver Screen and Roll reports that the Lakers are also being smart when it comes to salary as much as they are with the quality of their trades.

"So, before you jump on the trade machine to find an impact player in the $13 million range, look instead at guys in the final year of their deal on teams that would benefit from dumping that salary," the site reminded.

There is no information to confirm this exciting LA Lakers trade rumor yet. At the moment, what is only known, at least according to Eric Pincus of Basketball Insiders, Lakers has a target locked in.

"The Lakers do have an unnamed trade target in mind, but are also preserving space for another opportunistic [Jose Calderon]-like deal," Pincus claimed.

Calderon was nabbed by the Lakers from Chicago Bulls not too long ago. It is undeniable that a player like Noel can live up to the plans of the franchise.

There are actually trade rumors indicating that this unnamed target is Noel. However, Lakers have not made a move of acquiring the Sixers center.

Lakers are looking to rebuild this offseason following the departure of Kobe Bryant. A deal like Calderon was something that helps that, and so LA is keen on scoring such type of deal again.

"Not only is Jose an elite shooter, he is also an established and versatile player whose skill and professionalism will supplement the talent on our roster," Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak told NBA.com about their new player.