2017 NBA Draft: 3 Options For Los Angeles Lakers With Top-3 Pick

Trade The Pick For A Superstar

Based on the rumors, the Los Angeles Lakers were very active leading up to the 2017 NBA trade deadline. Although no blockbuster deals came to fruition, they apparently were in the mix for names such as Paul George and Jimmy Butler. So why couldn’t that still be the case?

Realistically, both of those teams could part with their superstars if the offer is right. Other big names could also become available this offseason depending on how a number of things play out.

Especially if free agency goes one way or another, one of the Lakers’ top targets could suddenly become available.

Los Angeles Lakers

If Los Angeles does have a top-three pick, you better believe they’ll have some potential trade partners. One of the sports’ two most promising young guards should be available, which should have several teams salivating at the opportunity to draft them.

Unfortunately for those teams, that value is going to jack up the asking price–which could work out very well for the Lakers.

I could see something coming to fruition like a team in the middle of the first round swapping picks and sending the Lakers a star for one of their big contracts.

It’s not ideal, but it may be an opportunity for a team like the Indiana Pacers to get something for George instead of letting him walk in 2018.

It seems like a crazy idea to pass on such promising college talent, but Magic may be convinced an experienced veteran can turn this team around quicker.