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

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Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

2. D’Angelo Russell, PG, Los Angeles Lakers

Jordan Clarkson was also a consideration here, but he doesn’t quite fit in the “star” category. While some would say that D’Angelo Russell doesn’t either, he appears much closer than his fellow Laker. Either way, one Los Angeles guard is likely to go this offseason.

Why? Because there’s a very good chance the Lakers land a top-tier guard during the 2017 NBA Draft. With the No. 2 overall pick, they’ll likely end up selecting Lonzo Ball, a true facilitator at the 1-spot. De’Aaron Fox could also be a consideration, or Markelle Fultz if the Boston Celtics passed on him for some unfathomable reason.

So chances are the Lakers get yet another guard this offseason during the draft. That would leave the position rather crowded with Russell, Clarkson and an incoming rookie all vying for minutes. While the team could obviously move one over to the 2-spot, that doesn’t mean a trade couldn’t still be a way to resolve the logjam.

It could be something worth looking into, especially if the Lakers can get considerable returns on Russell. Magic Johnson needs to give Paul George every reason to sign next offseason, and adding more proven assets would be wise.

Assuming they get a point guard at No. 2 overall and get a good offer for Russell, I could see him playing elsewhere in 2017-18.