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Lakers rumors: Who is most likely to be traded from young core?

By Keith Rivas

Mar 7, 2017; Dallas, TX, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Brandon Ingram (14) reacts during the second half against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 7, 2017; Dallas, TX, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Brandon Ingram (14) reacts during the second half against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 3, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Boston Celtics guard Terry Rozier (12) knocks the ball from the hands of Los Angeles Lakers center Ivica Zubac (40) in the second half of the game at Staples Center. The Celtics won 115-95. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 3, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Boston Celtics guard Terry Rozier (12) knocks the ball from the hands of Los Angeles Lakers center Ivica Zubac (40) in the second half of the game at Staples Center. The Celtics won 115-95. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /

Ivica Zubac

The rookie center has a bigger impact on the Lakers’ future than a lot of people realize. Especially considering the fact that the Mozgov contract came back to bite the team.

Magic Johnson has to count his cards accordingly, as Zubac could end up being a solid backup or the eventual starter. Thankfully, the team has given him a lot of chances to hone his craft, but in the long term, they can’t afford to not have a good presence down low.

While the league overall has been trending more towards shooters, the Lakers need to have a balance. They have a chance to be the first team with a complete young core that could actually get somewhere.

Other teams have at least a few veterans, and they could end up being a playoff team if they do things right with just one or two, possibly none. Zubac currently averages seven points and four rebounds, with plenty of potential to develop that into something special.

Just like time is being given to D’Angelo Russell to find his leadership skills and put consistency on display, Zubac should get the same opportunity this year and next.

Chance of Trade: 20%

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