NBA Trade Rumors: 5 Los Angeles Lakers most likely to be traded in 2017

1. D’Angelo Russell, PG

This one was pretty obvious, right?

Since the Lakers secured the No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, there’s been heavy speculation about D’Angelo Russell’s future. With Los Angeles likely to draft one of the star point guards atop this year’s class, it seems like Russell could soon be deemed a redundant talent.

That’s why rumors immediately began cropping up that other teams were putting together potential trade packages for the 2015 No. 2 overall selection. He’s obviously an exciting young talent with plenty more ground to gain in his development. Would the Lakers really be that willing to send him packing after only two years, though?

Based on Magic’s comments, the answer is a resounding yes. That’s why he tops this list as the most likely player to get traded this offseason.

Apart from Ingram, Russell likely possesses the most value on the trade market. He plays the modern NBA’s most important position, and offers an exciting mix of traits. On top of that, he’s under contract for a couple more years at a modest price and is only 21 years old. At this point, I’m sure any point guard-hungry team would love to bring him aboard.

Next: Potential landing spots for D'Angelo Russell

So don’t be surprised to see Russell get dealt during or after the upcoming 2017 NBA Draft. It’s not the way we want to see his time in Hollywood end, but it may just be the move that helps the Lakers land the superstar that gets them back into the playoffs.