Los Angeles Lakers: What to do at the trade deadline

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Los Angeles Lakers: 5 most important questions facing team

LAS VEGAS, NV – JULY 16: Luke Walton, Magic Johnson, and assistant coaches of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the game against the Dallas Mavericks during the 2017 Summer League Semifinals on July 16, 2017 at the Thomas /

Final Evaluation

Any evaluation of the team’s roster must begin with their young talent, the so-called ‘Baby Lakers’. Those youngsters make up a large part of the Lakers’ rotation.

There are seven players in the rotation, Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, Jordan Clarkson, Julius Randle, Larry Nance Jr. and Josh Hart, all 25 years of age or younger. None have more than four years of NBA experience; all were drafted by the Lakers. At this point, the growth of the team rests on their shoulders.

It is understandable that fans want the Lakers to win sooner than later. Trading for an established star or signing a first-tier free agent might help speed up the process. However, allowing the seven ‘Baby Lakers’ to grow together might be the wisest course in the long run. There’s also something special about cultivating your own homegrown talent rather than buying someone else’s.

Next: Lakers 10 Greatest Draft Picks of All-Time

What do you think? Should the Lakers try to make a big move, a small move or stand pat at this year’s trade deadline?

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