Los Angeles Lakers: Ranking Magic Johnson’s best 2017 offseason moves

Unloading Timofey Mozgov‘s contract

Heading into the offseason, fans seemed unsure of what to expect from this new regime. Was Magic really going to come in and make the necessary changes to get the Lakers back on track? Or were we all destined to watch more futility from this team?

Well, that concern was quickly put to bed when he unloaded Timofey Mozgov’s contract to the Brooklyn Nets. Although the move cost the Lakers D’Angelo Russell, he didn’t appear to be a part of the long-term plan anyway. Regardless, the compensation Los Angeles received more than made up for the young guard’s departure.

First and foremost, it gave the Lakers financial flexibility. With Mozgov’s horrendous deal off the books, Magic was one step closer to securing cap space for two max contracts. It also healed one of the final financial bruises lingering from the previous regime’s final year of frivolous spending. The trade received mixed reviews, but there’s no denying it was a win when viewed through unbiased lens.

More hoops habit: NBA: 50 Greatest Players Of All Time

On top of that, it yielded the Lakers a star center in Brook Lopez. Although it’s assumed he won’t stick around long, his presence will help the team look like a more appealing potential landing spot for free agents next offseason.

We also can’t forget that it sent the No. 27 overall pick to Los Angeles. It was eventually used to secure the talents of Kyle Kuzma, who looked like a steal during the Summer League. You could also make a case that it allowed the Lakers the flexibility to trade down from No. 28 overall, snagging two intriguing prospects in Josh Hart and Thomas Bryant in the process.

This move was the start of something special.