2017 NBA Draft: 3 bold predictions for Los Angeles Lakers

Timofey Mozgov gets dealt along with No. 28 pick

Not only does Magic get the draft’s best player, but he also gets one step closer to securing Paul George next offseason. As crazy as it seems, the Lakers find a desperate trade partner willing to take on Timofey Mozgov and his gaudy contract.

Here’s the scenario: someone like T.J. Leaf or Luke Kennard slides to No. 28. With that type of upside on the board at the end of the first round, someone decides they aren’t going to miss an opportunity to draft a potential star. So they call up the Lakers, and offer to take Mozgov off their hands if they can have the pick too.

While there’s plenty of value at No. 28 overall, getting rid of the $16 million Mozgov is owed annually is worth more. Not only does it rid the Lakers of the previous regime’s biggest mistake, but it paves the way for a PG-13 signing in 2018. With the added cap flexibility, getting him under contract next offseason becomes even easier.

Yes, the move leaves the Lakers a little thin at center. Ivica Zubac assumes the starter role, with Tarik Black providing depth (if the team picks up his option for 2018). By getting rid of the $16 million, Los Angeles can use a small portion of that money to sign another big man during free agency.

My final prediction will also provide some support for the Lakers’ frontcourt.