Los Angeles Lakers: Early bold predictions for 2018 offseason

By Gil Alcaraz IV | Mar 20, 2018

Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images /

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Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images

Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images /

2. Los Angeles trades up for Mitchell Robinson

Somehow, the Lakers managed to recoup a first round pick in the process of creating cap space ahead of the 2018 NBA Trade Deadline. Although the Cleveland Cavaliers’ selection will likely fall in the early- to mid-20s range, it’s still an opportunity for Los Angeles to add another developmental talent to the mix.

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However, instead of standing pat, Magic decides to make some moves on draft night. Let’s say the pick ends up at about 22 after another late-season losing streak drops the Cavaliers down a couple of spots in the standings. It’s unfortunate for LeBron James and his band of misfits, but it works out for the Lakers.

I’m a firm believer they have their sights set on Mitchell Robinson, a former top recruit who skipped the college basketball experience to spend 2017 training for the NBA. That has clearly stunted his development, but there’s no denying the elite physical tools are there. Between his size and athleticism, it’s easy to see shades of DeAndre Jordan in his game.

So instead of hoping he falls to the early-20s, the Lakers move up a few spots and snag him. It’s a risky move considering Robinson’s rawness and boom-or-bust potential, but he’s coming into a good situation with a strong supporting cast. There’s no doubt this locker room would hold him accountable and keep his growth at the top of his priority list.

It’s not every day you find a center with the athleticism, rim protection and rebounding skills of Robinson. The Lakers don’t currently have a big that fits that mold, so why not make the necessary move to fill that gap?

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