In a rare discussion with the media on Friday afternoon, Mitch Kupchak opened up a lot about the Lakers plan for the future. On top of emphasizing their focus on the draft, Kupchak also spoke of the Lakers’ plans to not jeopardize the future to win in Kobe Bryant‘s final season.
Kupchak: LAL's main focus right now is prepping for the Draft, which could then influence what type of player LAL go after in free agency.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) February 20, 2015
Kupchak on LAL improving: "It can turn quickly. If you have picks + financial flexibility, there are a lot of ways to improve your team."
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) February 20, 2015
Kupchak said LAL can't jeopardize the next 5-7 years just to win during the final year of Kobe's contract by bringing in veterans.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) February 20, 2015
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For Lakers fans, this are words of comfort and ones that should ease their anxiety. After a trade deadline where they stood pat and left fans wondering of their plan, Kupchak and the front office clearly have a plan going forward.
In terms of the upcoming NBA Draft, the Lakers could potentially have four draft picks: their own (assuming it lands in the top five), Houston’s first round pick (lottery protected), their own second round pick, and potentially the Los Angeles Clippers’ second round pick, assuming it falls in the 51-55 range. In that scenario, the Lakers would have a load of young talent to build around, not including free agency.
However, it’s also worth noting that the Lakers have no intentions of going “all-in,” so to say, for a team to win in Kobe Bryant’s final season. Bryant has long talked about being all-abord the Lakers’ plans going forward, and those plans clearly see Bryant as a mentor and role model going forward and not the leader of a championship-contending team.
What do you think of Kupchak’s thoughts today regarding to the draft and the Lakers’ future? Do you agree? Let us know down below!
Next: Lakers News: Kupchak Says Team Was Active At The Deadline
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