The Los Angeles Lakers concluded the 2023-24 season with a first-round exit after barely making it through the Play-In Tournament. With LeBron James nearing the end of his career, significant changes were anticipated this offseason. Numerous trade proposals for a third star were floated, and it was believed that the Lakers would enhance their supporting cast substantially.

However, Rob Pelinka has remained largely inactive. While other Western Conference teams have strengthened their rosters—DeMar DeRozan to Sacramento, Isaiah Hartenstein to OKC, Klay Thompson to Dallas, and Dejounte Murray to New Orleans—the Lakers’ only new additions are Dalton Knecht and Bronny James, their 2024 NBA Draft picks.

By July 22, the Lakers had not signed a single free agent, which is unusual. They let Taurean Prince and Spencer Dinwiddie walk, but no new free agents have joined the team. Despite having the tradeable expiring contract of D’Angelo Russell and some promising young players, the Lakers have made no trades. Pelinka’s inactivity has been notable.

Nonetheless, change may be on the horizon, according to Jovan Buha of The Athletic. While the Lakers are “expected to remain patient,” they plan to make a trade eventually.

“According to league and team sources, the Lakers expect to make a consolidation trade at some point, possibly closer to the start of the season.”

A consolidation trade could mean various things. The Lakers might look to combine smaller contracts into a larger one, whether that involves trading D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves for a star or packaging role players for an upgraded role player. Given the Lakers’ recent track record, it’s best to temper expectations.