Lakers Trade Rumors: C.J. Miles Could Be On His Way To L.A., Pau Gasol Staying Put

The Salt Lake Tribune is reporting that C.J. Miles might be leaning towards signing with L.A. He would likely accept a one or two-year deal with the Lakers. Miles would receive the team's mini mid-level exception for about $3 million per year.

Miles could probably get more money by signing with another team, but might chose L.A. because of their potential to win a title. He has also met with the Jazz, Cavaliers and Mavericks.

In seven years in the NBA, Miles has only played for the Jazz. He averaged 9.1 points and 2.1 rebounds per game last year.

He would back up Kobe Bryant at shooting guard, where the Lakers lack depth. Rookie Darius Johnson-Odom and Andrew Goudelock are the only shooting guards on the roster. They have a combined 51 games of NBA experience.

Los Angeles has already brought in some quality free agents, despite being over the salary cap. Antawn Jamison took less money to play for the Lakers, agreeing to the veteran's minimum. They also brought back Jordan Hill.

L.A. also traded for Steve Nash earlier this summer. They have been in trade discussions with Orlando about a possible deal for Dwight Howard. The Lakers would move Andrew Bynum in a potential deal, but the two sides aren't close to an agreement at this point. A third team like the Cavs or Rockets would probably have to step in and help facilitate a transaction.

While Bynum is being shopped by Los Angeles, Gasol seems to be a definite part of the team's future plans. While playing for Team USA in London, Bryant stated that Gasol would be on the team for as long as he is. The center has been linked to rumors involving a deal for Andre Iguodala, but it appears that he'll be staying put.

The Lakers are now considered to be one of the favorites in the West after their offseason moves. They have been knocked out in the second round of the playoffs for the past two seasons.