Lakers Rumors: Three routes the Lakers can take with the second pick
By Jason Reed
Trade for a superstar
Instead of drafting a superstar in the making this season, the Lakers could attempt to trade for an established star already. The Lakers already have a young and developing core, and instead of adding to that and patiently waiting for each player to progress, the Lakers could bring in a star that can help them develop and help draw in future free agents.
More from Lakers Rumors
- Lakers: 5 Players to Target Through Trades to make another championship run
- Lakers Rumors: Los Angeles Clippers interested in Rajon Rondo
- Lakers Rumors: Jason Kidd no longer being considered for Pelicans job
- Lakers Rumors: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Rajon Rondo expected to opt out
- Lakers Rumors: Golden State Warriors interested in Dwight Howard
There are quite a few guys the Lakers can go after. DeMarcus Cousins and Paul George are atop the list. With both being on franchises that need a spark and only one year left under contract, their respective teams may be intrigued to deal them for a pick as high as number two. If the Lakers can convince either player to sign a max deal after being traded, this would be smart.
There is also sleeper superstars that the Lakers could pursue as well. Kemba Walker could be an option, to potentially open the door for Stephen Curry in his hometown. However, Kemba is not good enough for a number two selection.
However, another more likely guy could be the Bulls’, Jimmy Butler. Butler and the Bulls already have some tension, and with three more years under contract, he could be the guy the Lakers build around. They could move Butler back to shooting guard, having him be the dynamic scorer in the future.
Regardless on who the Lakers attempt to obtain in exchange for their selection, there is no doubt that they can bring in some true star power. While the fans may want to keep the selection, this is just as real of a possibility.
Next: Fifteen free agent targets for the Lakers
Overall, the Lakers rumors are only going to grow after the team reeled in their own first round pick. The only thing we can do from here is to wait and see.