As the NBA trade deadline draws near, the Los Angeles Lakers are focusing on potential improvements to strengthen their chances of winning the NBA Championship. With the team's current roster lacking the firepower to compete against the league's elite, the Lakers have emerged as a prominent team to watch for potential trades and buyout acquisitions.

Currently, the Lakers have 14 players on their active roster, but more spots could open up depending on their moves before the deadline. The team is actively monitoring the buyout market for experienced veterans who can provide a solid presence in the backend rotation.

A recent trade between the Detroit Pistons and the Washington Wizards has presented the Lakers with two intriguing buyout targets: Danilo Gallinari and Mike Muscala. The main player involved in the trade was Marvin Bagley III, who will now seek a fresh start in Washington. The Pistons had to include second-round picks in the trade to facilitate Bagley's departure, indicating their intention to shed his contract.

Both Gallinari and Muscala are on expiring contracts, making it unlikely for the Pistons to retain them for the rest of the season. Detroit may initially keep the veterans on the team in hopes of turning their season around and potentially trading them for second-round picks. However, if no suitable trade offers materialize, it is highly probable that both players will be bought out.

Both Gallinari and Muscala share similarities in their skill sets, as they are veteran three-point specialists. However, they have both struggled to find their rhythm behind the arc this season. Nevertheless, their track records suggest they are capable of bouncing back when playing on a competitive team like the Lakers.

From a logistical standpoint, Muscala might be the better fit, given his experience playing at the center position. However, either player would provide a small-ball option in the frontcourt. In their prime form, both Muscala and Gallinari can contribute 12-14 minutes off the bench, knocking down crucial three-point shots as off-ball threats.

Although their shooting numbers have been subpar this season, both players have proven to be reliable sharpshooters throughout their careers. Gallinari boasts a career three-point shooting percentage of 38.1% and shot 40.8% from beyond the arc in his previous four seasons before the 2023-24 campaign. On the other hand, Muscala holds a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.5% and shot 39.1% from three over his last four seasons before this year.

The Lakers' pressing need for additional shooting off the bench makes both Muscala and Gallinari appealing options. This need might become even more significant if the team decides to trade certain players, such as Rui Hachimura, before the deadline.

As the trade deadline approaches, the Lakers will closely evaluate the potential of acquiring Gallinari or Muscala through buyouts to bolster their roster for the remainder of the season. These experienced veterans could prove to be valuable assets for the team's championship aspirations, providing much-needed shooting from the bench.