NBA Trade Rumors: 5 stars most likely to be dealt during 2017 NBA Draft

5. Paul George, SF, Indiana Pacers

It’s been months since the Paul George rumors began running rampant. While it’s believed he’ll ultimately end up with the Los Angeles Lakers, there have been discussions about a potential trade that could land him with a contender in 2017-18.

Despite all of that, there’s a reason he’s only fifth on this list.

Realistically, all signs point towards George landing with the Lakers in 2018. That’s why teams are hesitant to trade for the Pacers’ superstar. Why invest significant assets in PG-13 if he’s going to leave next offseason? It makes sense, especially when considering this insight from The Ringer‘s Kevin O’Connor:

"“The vibe I’ve gotten from talking to NBA executives and agents over the past few weeks is that teams aren’t willing to sell the farm for George because of the possibility that he’ll sign with the Lakers is so strong.”"

While that obviously makes a trade less likely, it doesn’t mean the Lakers won’t get desperate a make a deal. The feeling right now is they’re content to wait for George, but things can change in an instant in today’s NBA. Maybe with the addition of a rising star at No. 2 overall, they figure bringing in George is enough to make them playoff contenders now.

I know — it’s unlikely. You never know, though.

Will George get traded this offseason? The answer would seem to be no. However, with several contenders in need of one more superstar, I wouldn’t be surprised if someone risked a one-year loan to win a ring.