Contrary to the latest reports, general manager Mitch Kupchak has stated that the Lakers don’t intend to trade their draft pick
Tuesday night the realm of possibilities for the Los Angeles Lakers’ expanded exponentially. Not only would the team have the option of drafting a top two prospect, likely Brandon Ingram or Ben Simmons, but they would also have the ability to trade the pick for a proven veteran.
In a recent Bleacher Report piece, Kevin Ding expanded on the latter voicing the sentiment that the Lakers have been sticking to since the offseason started, that they would be open to trading the pick if the right offer came along.
"Still, the Lakers will actively explore trading the pick. They want to get better as soon as possible—in part to make sure Philadelphia doesn’t get too good of a pick next year when the Lakers’ first-rounder conveys to the 76ers if it’s outside the top three. Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak is also seeking a better blend of youth and experience on the roster."
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However, Matt Moore of CBS reported that Kupchak directly contradicted this point on Thursday in an interview with AM570 LA Sports saying, “Just off the top of my head, there aren’t many players we’d use the pick to trade for” and that they fully intend to use their pick.
Off the top of my head it seems that one of the players the Lakers would be willing to trade for would have to be Indiana Pacers’ shooting guard, Paul George, but that’s about it.
This is great news for fans as it seems like the Lakers are finally learning from their mistakes and trying to avoid salvaging their future for the prospect of instant gratification but who knows, the offseason is still young.
Next: Lakers: Questions That Must Be Addressed This Offseason
More reports are sure to come out about this subject specifically so stay tuned for the latest on Mitch Kupchak and the Los Angeles Lakers.