5 Trades Lakers Should Consider For Their No. 17 Pick in the 2024 NBA Draft

Trae Young to Lakers

Instead of opting for a role player like Caruso, the Lakers can also choose to trade for a third star next to LeBron and Davis. Perhaps the best player they can realistically trade for is the Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young.

The Hawks have the first-overall pick in the draft and are nowhere close to contending. The latest reporting suggests that they are willing to listen to offers for Young and Dejounte Murray. Three first-round picks, including the No. 17 this year, plus Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Jarred Vanderbilt should be enough to lure Atlanta to part ways with its star.

Trae Young certainly has his limitations, especially on the defensive end. At the same time, he is a wizard on the offensive end. He is a master running the pick-and-roll, one of the best passers in the league, and ease the offensive burden of James and Davis.

Plus, the Lakers have the personnel to cover up for Trae's defensive deficiencies. Anthony Davis can anchor the defense while Young carries the offense on the other end.

The Lakers have an immediate need for more playmaking, shooting, and scoring. Trae Young takes care of all three of these needs. He should be near the top of the list of trade targets for the Lakers.