Los Angeles Lakers: 3 takeaways from Kentavious Caldwell-Pope deal

AUBURN HILLS, MI - MARCH 17: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope #5 of the Detroit Pistons during the game against the Toronto Raptors at the Palace of Auburn Hills on March 17, 2017 in Auburn Hills, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images) /

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Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images /

2. Jordan Clarkson gets short end of stick

Prior to the acquisition of Caldwell-Pope, Jordan Clarkson seemed destined for a boost in minutes at the 2-spot. Unfortunately, those chances flew out the window with the $18 million the Lakers ponied up to get KCP.

Now that’s not to say Clarkson will become irrelevant. While it boots him out of a starting gig, it puts him in prime position to return to the sixth man role that he thrived in last season. He’s essentially the Lakers’ best option off the bench at either guard position, and should still see plenty of minutes this upcoming season.

Again, this just seems like more of a bummer for Clarkson than anything. It hurts his stock and his status as one of the Lakers’ top talents. I’m sure paying him $12.5 million to be a playmaker off the bench isn’t exactly comforting for the Lakers either.

Then again, maybe this is all part of the Lakers’ plan to trade Clarkson. He’s making a lot of money, and will continue to do so for the next three seasons. However, unlike Luol Deng, he’s a much more desirable trade chip. If the Lakers can’t find a way to trade Deng, maybe they feel comfortable moving Clarkson to make room for next offseason’s potential spending spree.

No matter what way you spin it, Clarkson gets the short end of the stick here.

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