Lakers Rumors: Three unlikely trades next season that are actually likely

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OAKLAND, CA – NOVEMBER 09: Klay Thompson (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) – Lakers Rumors /

Nobody wants to trade Brandon Ingram. While it is reasonable to think that the 19-year-old forward can turn into a superstar, it may be time the Lakers pull the trigger on trading Ingram for an established. Ingram was the second overall selection in a fairly weak draft class, so we may be overvaluing his potential. Los Angeles should capitalize on his value.

Now, this deal would undoubtedly happen after this season. Thompson has two years remaining under contract and is a pivotal piece to the Warriors puzzle this season. However, Thompson is a free agent the same year as Kevin Durant and one year before Draymond Green, meaning the Warriors have some decisions to make.

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Thompson has superstar potential and could be a legit top ten player if he is the star of his own team. With Durant and Steph Curry in Golden State Thompson does not have the freedom to reach his max potential. In Los Angeles, this potential can blossom and we could see Thompson slowly become an MVP caliber player.

Golden State turns one year of Thompson into two more seasons of a consistent Jordan Clarkson along with investing in the star that Ingram can become.

Granted, this is a risk because if Thompson does not resign the Lakers are practically screwed. However, Los Angeles is going to have to bring in a star if they want to make a splash on the stacked 2018 free agency class. Klay Thompson is that star.

Next: Three trade packages for Jordan Clarkson

Overall, the Lakers rumors will not stop until the team wins their 17th NBA Championship. These unexpected moves can help build towards that.

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