Lakers Rumors: Trades that make sense after D’Angelo Russell deal
By Jason Reed
Paul George made his intentions clear to the Indiana Pacers – he is not staying with the team after this season. This has fueled the Pacers to discuss trades for the superstar, looking to get something out of his one year of service. The Lakers, who are the favorites to land George at the end of his contract, may be in trade talks as well.
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Now, I have seen that many fans think this move is ridiculously stupid for the Lakers. The common argument is that if the team is going to get him anyway, why give pieces up for a trade. However, it is not that black and white, and the Lakers would actually benefit from acquiring him before signing him.
First, the Lakers would be able to sign him to a max contract. If Los Angeles were to pursue free agent Paul George they could only sign him for four years. However, if they pursue Laker Paul George, they can sign him for five.
Second, and more importantly, the Lakers would now own Bird Rights on George. Bird Rights allow a team to go over the cap to bring back a superstar that has played for a team for three or more years. If a player with Bird Rights gets traded, the Rights transfer to the next team. This would give the Lakers more wiggle room to bring in another superstar to form a real super team.
Plus, trading away two picks that weren’t even the Lakers alongside Jordan Clarkson seems like a no brainer. If the Lakers can get this deal done without Julius Randle or Brandon Ingram, it must be acted upon.
Overall, nobody really knows what the Lakers are going to do next. We can only speculate based on the latest Lakers rumors. However, I promise you that Magic Johnson has something up his sleeve.