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Los Angeles Lakers: Is trading for Paul George a smart move?

By Jason Renner

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 25: Paul George #13 of the Oklahoma City Thunder watches action against the utah Jazz during game 5 of the Western Conference playoffs at the Chesapeake Energy Arena on April 25, 2018 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by J Pat Carter/Getty Images)
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 25: Paul George #13 of the Oklahoma City Thunder watches action against the utah Jazz during game 5 of the Western Conference playoffs at the Chesapeake Energy Arena on April 25, 2018 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by J Pat Carter/Getty Images) /
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Should the Los Angeles Lakers trade for Paul George this offseason?

In a recent article I read on Bleacher Report, the viability of the Los Angeles Lakers trading for Paul George was discussed You heard that right, a trade for PG. I was shocked at the proposal given that PG will in fact be a free agent this summer if he declines his player option.

As I began to read the article, the argument seemed solid. The author proposed that the Lakers urge Paul George to sign for max-money with the Oklahoma City Thunder. After doing this, the Lakers would initiate a trade. By doing this, the Lakers would look to match George’s new contract by sending the Thunder Luol Deng and rookie Josh Hart.

The Lakers have been examining ways in which to either waive Deng’s contract or get it traded. Deng’s contract is seen as unfavorable around the league.

This has made it hard for the Lakers to clear his $18 million off the books for next year, per HoopsHype. Though, this trade allows the Lakers to do so.

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Though the Lakers would give up Josh Hart in the trade, they would effectively sign George while also preserving current cap space. The article detailed that an estimated $61 million would still be left in free cap space after the trade.

This would allow the Lakers to still pursue LeBron James or any other max-level free agent. The Lakers could also use the remaining space to re-sign worthy players like Julius Randle and also fill out the rest of the roster.

This trade sounds great in theory because of its ability to preserve cap space while also getting George. Though, I believe this trade ultimately is a question of Josh Hart’s future value. Trading Hart away after such a great rookie campaign might not be wise.

Hart quickly proved to be a steal in the 2017 NBA Draft, and made himself a part of the Lakers “young core”. In fact, his last game of the season showcased his full arsenal, giving a glimpse of his future potential. Hart looks like he could develop into a solid 3-and-D player.

Hart has shown, though, that he can be even more than that initial billing, and coach Luke Walton agrees.

So is trading Hart a smart move? The trade would dump Deng’s salary and net George but would give up a potentially valuable piece. Maybe it is best to sign George outright for the max four-year deal he can ink with the Lakers. If so, the Lakers can retain Hart.

The Lakers have also been rumored to be looking for reliable 3-point shooters this summer. One of those players rumored includes JJ Reddick. Though, the Lakers should realize they might have that shooting prowess already on the team. Hart was 39.6 percent from deep during the regular season, and hopefully, he will only get better.

The Lakers must evaluate Hart’s talent prior to signing off on any trade deal like the one mentioned. Hart adds value to this team, something he showed throughout the season. He’s a key cog in the young talent that the Lakers currently have.

Next: Los Angeles Lakers Ultimate Guide to 2018 Offseason

The Lakers should look to improve their roster immediately in order to contend for a championship. However, they must balance that approach by adding new pieces without taking away too much of what already exists and works.

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