This is the inaugural post from new contributor Caleb Cottrell. Caleb is currently a student at Indiana Wesleyan University, where he plays tennis. In his own words: “I enjoy torturing myself by trying to get into the minds of the Lakers front office. You can also find my work at HawksHoop, and can tell me how wrong I am on Twitter @Caleb_Cottrell.” Today Caleb will look at trading up in the NBA draft.
With just days until the 2015 NBA draft there has been plenty of speculation as to who the Los Angeles Lakers will pick with the number two overall pick in the draft. Obviously this is a big deal because their pick can become a franchise cornerstone for years to come. However, they have two other very important picks in the draft with numbers 27 and 34, respectively. These picks can be incredibly important, as well, because every team needs good role players. It seems, however, that the Lakers are going to just miss out on a a good tier of players with their other two picks, unless there is a surprise pick or two.
Personally, there are five tiers in the first round for me, and the fifth tier starts at pick 27. Of course, that’s the pick the Lakers have, so it seems like the best option would be to trade their last two picks to go into the fourth, or even third tier, depending on which teams are looking to move back.
Eric Pincus of the LA Times has stated that the Lakers aren’t really looking to add much more youth to their roster after bringing in Jordan Clarkson, Jabari Brown, Julius Randle, Tarik Black, and whoever the number two pick will be. The Lakers also can extend a qualifying offer to Vander Blue, if they wish, which would put them at six guys who are 23 years old or younger — that’s not including the other two picks in the draft.
The Lakers have said outright (via Mitch,others) that they’re not 100% sold on adding 3 rookies to this team with 4 2nd year players
— Eric Pincus (@EricPincus) June 20, 2015
The player I believe who could be the most useful for the Lakers is Justin Anderson. He’s a 6’6 wing with a wingspan of almost seven feet, and he weighs 230 pounds. He was known for his defense at Virginia, and he became a good outside shooter during his three years at UVA. He’s said he wants to be like Danny Green, and if the Lakers can grab a player like Danny Green in the latter part of the first round, sign me up.
Someone else the organization could look at would be RJ Hunter from Georgia State. He’s another 6’6 guard, and he can knock it down from beyond the three point line. If the Lakers are looking for a player who can be a good shooter, he’s their man, although I’m not as high as him as others are.
The third guy the Lakers would have a chance to draft is Rondae Hollis-Jefferson. The defensive specialist out of the University of Arizona is a 6’7 guard, who should be able to defend three or four positions in the NBA; however, he has no outside game, and the Lakers don’t really have much shooting elsewhere on the team,
Lastly, the Lakers could look to find their replacement for Kobe Bryant in Rashad Vaughn. There has been talk he could go as high as 15 in the draft, so it’s unlikely the Lakers can land him, unless they can get in the early 20s or hope he slides a bit.
Now, it’s fun and all to think about who the Lakers to trade up for, but they need a partner to trade with. One team who could possibly look to move down is the Cleveland Cavaliers. They’re going to be tight on money, so they can save a little bit going from 24 to 27, and then they can use the 34th pick for a draft and stash player. Or, they can try and package the two picks for a veteran.
Another team that could be looking to move back is the Dallas Mavericks, who have the 21st overall pick. Right now they only have four players on their roster, with some guys with player and team options. Trading with the Lakers would allow them to grab two more players for cheap, one of which would have a non-guaranteed deal. The Portland Trailblazers — owners of the 23rd pick — are also in a similar boat, with six guys on their roster, and players like LaMarcus Aldridge, Wesley Matthews, and Robin Lopez free agents, and Arron Afflalo with a player option.
If the Lakers really want another pick in the second round, they could end up buying a second rounder, just like they did last year from the Washington Wizards. It worked out pretty well, seeing as the pick became Jordan Clarkson.
If the Lakers aren’t looking to bring in much more young talent, trading up in the draft seems like a good idea to gain one more key roster piece, along with their top pick. The Summer League team will be absolutely stacked, and a core of Clarkson, Randle, Okafor/Russell (hopefully), and a player in the mid 20s is not a bad start to a rebuild just two years in.
Darius Soriano says
Since the nature of this post is exploring trade scenarios, the rule regarding trade speculation in the comments is lifted for this post.
Aaron says
I would be trying to trade the second pick and Clarkson and salary filler to Sacramento for Cousins and their pick. That is if Mudiay or Mario is still on the board. Obviously only a five percent chance Sacramento is so much higher on the second pick and Clarkson and lower on Mudiay or Mario than I am. But there is a chance. Only a five percent chance but I really think there is a chance. If they are high on Okafor or Towns as a cheap replacement for Cousins? And think Clarkson is more or less Mudiay/Mario? It’s possible. Unlikely but possible.
Calvin Chang says
Wishful thinking Aaron. However, it seems like their owner has a poor feel for the game. Might be able to pick his pocket.
Craig W. says
If the Lakers have a potential deal to trade #27 & #34 for #21-24 then that would signal they are definitely taking Okafor with the 2nd pick. That way they get a good wing player with the 2nd first round pick. It makes no sense to take Russell because there will be no bigs to be taken in the early 20’s. Upshaw should be available at #27 and possibly #34, so if we are going to do that, why trade up?
We have too many holes to double up on our picks – we need shooting/defending wings and a presence down low, then an additional PG. Again, if we trade up we are going after a wing player who could have a chance to start next year.
BigCitySid says
– Thank you Darius. As long as the FO builds around guys under 25 in a logical manner I’m pretty good. Randle, Clarkson, the #2 pick (I’m hoping Okafor), at least on paper, appears to be the safest way to do that. As I stated before, I don’t know if any of these guys will ever make an All-Star game, but if all three can be part of a solid short rotation (top six – seven in mins & production) on the team and can help us avoid a third 50 game losing season, I’m good for 2015 – 2016. My feeling is those three players will be competing to see who will become the 3rd scoring option on a contending team once we sign a couple of super stars come 2016 – 2017.
– Which is why this crazy talk about Wade joining the Lakers s/b only be discussed on April 1st. If him and Kobe are serious, as a Laker fan I’m ready to make the sacrifice and let Kobe join the Heat. Hey they are much closer to a contender than us and would have an easier path to it.
– FA I’m most interested in: Jimmy Butler, very difficult I know, especially since Kob still patrols that spot. I read on more than one occasion, about moving Kobe to the three to make room for Butler. I keep remembering Kobe being too small to guard 3’s years ago, which was a big reason Ron Artest was a acquired. Guys like Melo, LeBron, & Pierce just to large.
– 24 yr old sf Jay Crowder would make a nice FA signing. Nothing sexy on it’s own, but added to the Randle, Clarkson & Okafor or KAT (hopefully) grouping, I’d be ready to enjoy this season with big hopes of landing our top 2 scoring options next season.
Adrian says
If the miracle happens and Mario or Mudiay are still on the board and lakers can pull the impossible and nab them then that would be steal of the draft. But I think you got to package players like hill and young to get that kind of deal.
Anonymous says
As a Lakers fan, I’d rather have Towns. However, Okafor IMO is going to be pretty good.
Okafor has been a winner on every level (National Champion, ACC POY, HS POY, First-Team AA, State Champion in HS). His post game is incredibly advanced — and he should provide the Lakers with a post presence.
Has a 7’5″ wingspan and monster hands. Also fashions his game after Tim Duncan. Yes he needs to improve defensively, and also has to work on his FT shooting. However, I think he can be decent on both. Since working out in the offseason, he’s improved on his physical conditioning. His vertical jump has improved by 4 inches as he’s gotten slimmer (an ankle injury last year also hindered his explosiveness for a good chunk of the season).
In his first assessment when he came in (in terms of lateral quickness), Okafor’s left slide agility was measured at 2.88 seconds. His right at 2.81 seconds. Two months later, he posted scores of 2.66 seconds in his left slide agility and 2.58 seconds for his right, ranking him in the 87th percentile compared to other NBA centers.
The NBA is undoubtedly going smaller and quicker. I do think that in a sense has to do with the lack of quality skilled big men. Okafor is definitely a throwback — and can be a big weapon if used correctly. I do think he’ll continue to get in better shape and become more athletic. With his wingspan and lateral quickness, there’s no doubt he can be a good defender.
There are questions with how well he’ll fit with Randle, though. Hopefully Randle can continue to develop a perimeter shot. I do think they can be the new Marc Gasol/Z-Bo combination. There are more than a few similarities.
This is also ridiculous:
As a freshman at Duke, Okafor averaged 17.3 points and shot an incredible 66 percent from the field. That number went up to a ridiculous 76.5 percent at the rim, according to Hoop-Math.com. He was so efficient as a freshman that Kevin Pelton’s formula for projecting WARP freaked out, essentially calling his numbers a fluke and pushing him to sixth and later to 14th among draft prospects.
In other words, Pelton’s system felt that Okafor’s shooting percentage was just too good to be true.
barry_g says
I’d trade up if only to guarantee getting Anderson, but I have a feeling the Lakers will be able to get a guy they want (likely not Anderson) w/out trading up; I’d rather they keep their 2nd rounder for a d&s player (so far I like the idea of Osman most, but can understand Hernangomez if he’s available).
barry_g says
Interesting to see Kupchak’s hesitancy re: having too many young players on a team at the same time. At the other end of that spectrum you have Philly, who apparently have no problem fielding an entire team of <25 yr olds. I fall in line more w/ the Kupchak philosophy for a couple of reasons: (1) player development is critical especially for the youngest, so better to have a smaller group that the team can really nurture, and (2) the positive influence of strong veterans is important in these younger players developing the proper work habits from the start.
Kevin says
I would avoid Cousins like the plague. He’s already been in the league for 5 years – how many more will he be productive? He’s never been in ‘shape’ and likely never will be. Plus he’s now a max player so he’s not cheap in fact he’ll be overpaid as he approaches the his 30’s when the mileage/wear & tear start to show.
Okafor is a young Cousin’s and you get him for below market value the first five years of his career. Obtaining Cousins’ is a franchise killing move.
Kareem says
Aaron,
I am totally on board with that type of trade. Alternately, I think that the Magic could be another trade target, Vucevic and their pick for the number 2 + filler. Maybe then we wouldn’t have to part with Clarkson. Trading up late in the first also seems worthwhile.
Anonymous says
ESPN reports Lakers trying to trade for Cousins:
http://scores.espn.go.com/los-angeles/nba/story/_/id/13131159/los-angeles-lakers-actively-trying-acquire-demarcus-cousins-trade-sacramento-kings
Scot says
I saw the ESPN article about Cousins. Would the Kings trade Cousins straight up for Randle? That way we keep our pick. I’d do that deal in a heart beat.
anyonemouse says
Yikes! no to cousins – he’s all messed up in the head! I’m ok with trading both Randle and Clarkson (and our #27, #34 picks) to get two other spots in the first 8. Specifically, Mudiay and Winslow.
We have to remember that we will have loads of cap space to go after two top-level FAs next year.
the other Stephen says
Nice piece, Caleb. Thanks for popping over from HawksHoop!
Aaron says
Ha. What a coincidence I propose the trade and now it’s rumored by ESPN. I really think both teams would be interested in the exact deal I outlined above. The problem is of course we would be “guessing” that either Mudiay/Mario would still be available at Six.
Shaun says
Sacremento and their new billionaire owner who wants to win will not trade cousins
Personally in the latest mock i think we are getting okafor,vaughn, and alexander with our 3 picks …. all worthy picks .. not sure if we need to trade up
Also… i think the knicks are gonna pull some shit off … they are most likely going to sign monroe, melo and the rumor is true they could semd their pick to pheonix for bledsoe and 13 … if they signed monroe first b4 the trade i think it could work … there is also another rumor of them getting jennings from detroit for hardaway …. interesting stuff from phil if this happens
Kevin says
I would not give up the #2 and Clarkson for Cousins and the #6. There’s a reason the Kings are open to moving him. He should be the best player in the league and he’s not. The Kings should have been in the playoffs each of his 5 years in the league but they haven’t. There a reason he has never been in great shape. Cousins lacks heart and frankly doesn’t care to improve. Having him in a Lakers uniform won’t change a thing about him.
Aaron says
Kevin,
I agree with you re Cousins long term future. He has never been in shape. But there is a small chance he gets in shape in LA with the world watching… And if not he would still be productive till 30. He is only 24. I Think in spite of it all he will still be the best Center in the NBA for another five years. He is like a Center version of Melo. Never in shape and probably will fall off the cliff at around 30. But that’s fine. We would have him before that cliff. Also rem he is on a great team friendly max contract.
Shaun says
It was justin anderson and not vaughn .. but still same group as this post discusses
To me it would be really interesting to see someone like the cavs simply trade 24 for 34 just to save money…like nothing else included .. maybe a future 2nd round pick included thay we buy …. their tax will be huge if they resign everyone and probably need to try and stash someone
You could even see the spurs willing to do that too since they are trying to max a new guy out this year as well.
I think it would be great if we could get tyus jones by trading up
Allows clarkson to move to the 2,jones at the 1 randle at the 4 okafor at the 5 ..young runnerd like the jones van excel preshaq lakers
As for the 3 – jae crowder would be a great signing … wed all like to get butler but thats not happening … wade is not happening … aminu could be a good 3 as well … maybe try and sign thaddeus young to be a mix 3/4 with randle
fern says
Mitch said like 6 months ago that he would not like to have that many rookies and 2nd year players on the team,so whats the surprise? Pleaseee no Wade, that would undo all the things that the Lakers are doing right and please not a potential cancer like Cousins,the last thing this team need is this fool poisoning our youngsters in the locker room, would love to get Butler but i really doubt thas gonna happen ,the Lakers need to stay the course, i believe the Lakers are going to do some dealings with those later picks,what kind?i dont know
Aaron says
BTW… The last time I predicted a trade (Ramon Sessions for our first rounder) it happened. Just saying 😉 I’m one for one. Large sample size I know.
Sean.is says
As long as we are talking about trades (especially with the new rumor of Cousins), what about Paul George for the number 2 pick and however you would match the salaries. I like this idea but what do you guys think?
Nick says
Would love to see this:
Kings get:
Clarkson
#2 pick
#27 pick
And a salary filler player / maybe #34
Lakers get:
Cousins
#6 pick
The reason I like this:
1. I believe Mudiay in 5 years will be the best player of the draft and is much younger and already an upgrade on Jordan Clarkson. This kid has all the raw attributes and then some as John Wall coming into the league. Quit freaking out about the jump shot, it’s fixable, and that’s his ONLY downside.
2. Cousins at 24 has the size, and skill that would make him a top 3 player in the league if surrounded by the right players, and highly motivated, I believe LA can offer that.
3. I value locking down A few QUALITY long term pieces through the draft/trade, and using free agency to fill roster spots.
Cousins, Mudiay, Randle, maybe a Tobias Harris… That’s a young core I can get excited about
nik kannan says
I agree with Nick and Aaron on this one if we can get cousins we go ahead and do it is going to be much better right away then even Okafor and if we’re able to get another draft pick that would be even better for us till like Rondo Cousins Kobe Randall. is Love out of the hypothetical picture then or more likley…. id really like to see boogie & love play together.. & additiomal pics like hollis-jefferson or a Justin Anderson or Rashad Vaughn next year’s team looks really potent on paper and just has to learn to mess with each other
How much better do you want to cousins to get he’s already on Team NBA he’s a seven footer with range you can bang on the inside and the defense a present that’s the end of the argument
nik kannan says
Team USA, is 7 feet, is athletic, can shoot from the outside, bang in the paint, washes windows, & is a defensive prescence… sorry talking into cell for posts…
Nick says
One more thing…
All of this noise coming out of the FO can tell us one thing for certain, and that is the Lakers really are not happy with Okafor or Russle. Even though they might have to just suck it up and take one of them
Robert says
We need to do nothing except pick whichever one of the bigs is available at 2 and then take the best talent available with our other picks. Wade would be a ridiculous publicity stunt and if we signed him long term it would be a nightmare. Cousins would be even worse. Kobe, Byron, and DeMarcus would not make it through the year intact. Another nightmare. As for trading up in picks – we already did that by hitting the lottery.
Caleb: “I enjoy torturing myself by trying to get into the minds of the Lakers front office” Well if “trying” to get in is torture, I can hardly wait for your description once you are indeed “into the minds of the FO”.
barry_g says
Would be insane (in a good way) to see Nick’s scenario go through. Cousins and one of Mudiay/Winslow/Porzingis would be an amazing haul this offseason (plus any free agents), esp considering that the only asset we had heading into last summer was the #7 pick.
Anonymous says
@ Scot: I saw the ESPN article about Cousins. Would the Kings trade Cousins straight up for Randle? That way we keep our pick. I’d do that deal in a heart beat.
__
So would I, but that trade would be rejected by Sacramento. Cousins is a knucklehead but as Randle is un-proven there is no way the Kings would think that is enough. The only way this happens is if the new Kings management realizes that Cousins is not a good fit at all and are looking to dump him. However, I think trading him to the East for a boatload of Celtic draft picks is the way to go. Not a good idea to move him within the same division.
Also, did you guys see that the Suns are looking to move Bledsoe. This means that they are bent on keeping Knight who is a RFA. A plan of mine had been to move Clarkson for another late lottery pick and sign Knight as a free agent. Looks like that plan is not going to happen.
nik kannan says
unfortunately – It looks like
any deal involving Cuz can not be finalized until July 1st. I’m really hoping for us to trade the #2, #34, Clarkson & Young in a 3 way.. Cousins gets a fresh start & is already disgruntled in Sacto, he makes 15 mil a year for the next 3 years (which is a bargain) & if we can get Tobias harris (sign & trade) in return & draft a long ath. 3 with #27 Anderson or Hollis Jefferson, or shooter Rashard Vaughn… + with Randle, we then become really attractive to Free Agents. By keeping Young in the deal we still have 17-18 mil in cap space split between Rondo at 8-9 mil for 3 years, Maybe Love or Wade takes a 1 year offer for 10 mil for a promised bigger payday in 2016. then resign ed Davis with bird rights & go over cap. I didn’t do all the math with sign & trade harris but we would have to try to equalize salary.
1 – Rondo, Brown
2 – Kobe, Vaughn/Anderson/Jefferson
3 – Harris, Vaughn/Anderson/Jefferson
4 – Love, Randle/Davis, Kelly
5 – Cousins , Davis
right? or pipe dream? or no good?
Ed says
Kevin has said everything,so I have nothing to add there, other than I value attitude and work ethic as well as skill and athleticism.
Nick says
@nik kannan
I wouldn’t do the deal unless we could get Cousins and the #6 pick too (which probably isn’t even on the table). But the #6 pick I think is the crucial part to doing the trade since you could get Mudiay or Mario.
The more I think about it, the more I think that the Lakers don’t have a ton of leverage in this situation with Sacramento, since it is abundantly clear that the Lakers aren’t happy sitting at #2. Also it seems like Vlade isn’t exactly fed up with Cousins either, and trying to turn a new leaf. Who knows though, crazier things have happened… like losing CP3 to the Clippers (still bitter).
And as for Cousins not wanting to get better/ being out of shape. The guy is the most dominant big in the league and is a walking 20&10 machine – that is pretty damn good on D… Don’t know what else you want.
Mid-Wilshire says
Caleb,
First of all, great job. Your post is well-written and is very thought-provoking. I enjoyed it greatly. It’s also good to see another tennis player showing interest in the Lakers.
Re: the supposed upcoming trade for Boogie Cousins, I have serious doubts that that will happen. There are two reasons:
1) I don’t think that Sac believes that they have to trade him (and so they probably won’t); and
2) Vlade Divac has gone on record as saying that this deal “will not happen.” I’m taking him at his word.
However, the possibility of trading down for a # 20 or 21 pick could very well occur if the Lakers can find a buyer. To do so, they’d have to package their own #27 pick and a player currently under contract (Nick Young, Jordan Hill) for a better draft pick and possibly a future 2nd-round pick. In that manner, the Lakers could select Hollis-Jefferson or Justin Anderson to back up whatever FA wing player they could recruit (Demarre Carroll, Danny Green).
The Lakers, then, must focus on filling the 3 slot. I feel certain that the Wes Johnson era is over in LA. This must be the Lakers’ true focus over the next few days.
The Demarcus Cousins trade? Probably won’t happen. The drafting of Jahlil Okafor? Probably will.
Now…who’ll play the 3?
Kevin says
@ nik kannan: Any Lakers solution that includes Rondo is a non-starter. I don’t see the attraction to a player that can’t play anymore. He was kicked off the Mavs ‘during’ the playoffs for a reason — he’s a selfish headcase. Teaming him with Cousins would not make the Lakers very attractive to future free agents at all.
Anonymous says
I can see why Darius normally prohibits trade speculation. Reading some of these posts its clear that the wheels have fallen off the wagon.
Robert says
nik kannon: Rondo, Cousins, and Love all at the same time = “pipe dream” – a “no good” pipe dream. Fortunately, most of the deals we have attempted to do recently have not been completed. So see – I can have confidence in the FO.
Aaron: So since you bring up Sessions, does this mean if we trade our young guys for Cousins, in 2 years we will have nothing to show for it?
smokedaddy says
Uh, yeah, good luck with that Aaron.
KC says
Given that GS was able to go small ball on its way to championship this year (taking Bogut out of the game), would it make sense for Lakers to go small also (Russell)? Paring him up with Clarkson would be an interesting experiment.
Wade I think is a marketing ploy to see if he can get more bucks, but the fact that Lakers gave out a nice deal to Kobe and honored their deal with Nash is probably what’s making it attractive for him to consider signing with the Lakers. Honoring Nash’s deal was good in that it put the veterans on notice, but I guess the unintended side effect is that the aging veterans with not much value left in them are throwing Lakers out there as a bargaining chip.
I’d like to see Lakers pick up KAT if he’s available at 2, otherwise, pick up Russell at 2. If the trade is going to happen, I hope it happens without giving up too much.
Teamn says
Anonymous —
You hit the nail on the head. Good grief…
Anon says
Not a good idea to take “credit” for calling a trade that wound up being a joke, is it? Does that really prove anything, other than the obvious?
BigCitySid says
– Would absolutely love to see Cousin wearing a Laker uniform. Kings can choose any two from our personnel pool. Coach Karl doesn’t see him fitting into the Kings offense. Vlade says no way Cousin gets moved. Guess we’re about to see who has the owner’s ears.
– Nice safe plans (Plan A) like I mentioned above are cool, but there are exceptions to every rule. I’m ready to go the DeMarcus Cousin’s Plan B route. Lakers have NEVER won a title w/o a HOF big. He can even keep his #15 (please don’t mention Jabari Brown).
rubenowski says
I feel bad for Okafor at the moment and a little sad since I really wanted him on the team. The kid really wanted to be a Laker. But I’d like Boogie to be a Laker more, since he’s already proven and a badass. So here is my trade proposal.
1. Sacramento gets our No. 2, Clarkson, our 27th, a future 1st or 2nd rounder, and filler. (Vlade gives us the “former Laker” deal.)
2. The New York Knicks get Randle and Sac’s No. 6 pick. (Phil gives us the “Im sleeping with the boss” deal.)
3. We get Boogie and NY’s No. 4. (And then we stick our tongue out at the Orlando Magic.)
And the league turns a blind eye to the deal involving former Lakers because they owe us for the Chris Paul deal. Everybody wins.
George says
If somehow KAT slips to #2 there is no way in the world that the Lakers move the pick. To me KAT is a franchise player and he alone is enough of a prize to walk away from the draft feeling very satisfied.
Kevin says
@rubenowski :
1. Sacramento gets our No. 2, Clarkson, our 27th, a future 1st or 2nd rounder, and filler. (Vlade gives us the “former Laker” deal.)
2. The New York Knicks get Randle and Sac’s No. 6 pick. (Phil gives us the “Im sleeping with the boss” deal.)
3. We get Boogie and NY’s No. 4. (And then we stick our tongue out at the Orlando Magic.)
__
We give up the following: the #2 pick, Randle, Clarkson, #27, future #1 & 2 for Cousins and the #4 pick. That is insane — absolutely insane.
How do you, Aaron and nik kannan think of these deals that strip our already talent depleted roster bare — then have us build around a knucklehead like Cousins? This is not a pipe dream although it sounds like a ‘pipe’ was involved in the process.
Stop the madness. The inmates are running the asylum.
rubenowski says
It was just for fun, dude. Besides, Boogie and Russel or Boogie and Mudiay isnt something you’d like to see???
rubenowski says
And of course Phil and Vlade will also throw in a pick or a player or two. Im not a numbers guy, Im just a dreamer.
: )
Aaron says
Kevin,
What am I giving up? I’m sending away just Clarkson and whatever other fluff they want. Maybe it’s a late first rounder maybe it’s also a second rounder. The rest is a swap of our second pick for their sixth pick. And we get Cousins. And I have Mudiay, Mario, and Winslow ahead of Russell on y board anyways. My deal is very Lakers friendly. They can get away with it because we don’t have to trade away the second pick and the kings are in a spot where it seems they need to trade away Cousins. Plus I’m guessing they over value Russell. This adds up to the Lakers potentially executing their most lopsided trade in history. Pau for Marc wasn’t as lopsided as people originally thought. And trades aren’t graded by initial reaction. They are graded by the actual talent swapping sides. I don’t see my trade proposal as the Lakers getting taken.
R says
rubenowski June 22, 2015 at 6:11 pm
It was just for fun, dude. Besides, Boogie and Russel or Boogie and Mudiay isnt something you’d like to see???
————
Id like to see the Celtics hand over a bunch of picks for that … would set them back for years.
Oldtimer says
Please no Rondo, no Cousins, stay on course get a Center on #2 pick no trade bait unless….it is A. Davis, then give them #2, 27 and 34 and get the 1st round pick of Pelicans.
If you are a star and know the fact that $ 25M will be available cap space next year, you should fire your agent for not getting you to the Lakers derby. That is a sure money, fame and a free-for-all on who will replace Kobe. I am addressing this to Goran Dragic, Marc Gasol, Jimmy Butler, Kevin Love. They expressed their desires through rumors that they are being sought by the Lakers. The brand is still good despite the fact we only have the Buss Children running the show. The legends are still supporting the brand as well as its fans.
Again, we have seen a glimpse of a good roster – Clarkson, Randle, #2, Kobe plus the support cast Davis, Brown and Black. Discard the rest through trade for future picks and use the Laker market advantage in enticing F/A’s, Lakers have a million fans who are willing to spend even exceeding the luxury taxes as long we are a winner. If Rams, Raiders and Chargers in NFL are all egging to come to LA, it is because of our inherent advantage against other teams. We have diversity of fans who will travel long and far just to watch their favorite team. Former Microsoft CEO agrees with this concept and invested 2 billion to buy the 2nd class team.
Kevin says
rubenowski: sorry for being harsh. I guess I picked up my own pipe…
Oldtimer says
I agree with you Kevin
“We give up the following: the #2 pick, Randle, Clarkson, #27, future #1 & 2 for Cousins and the #4 pick. That is insane — absolutely insane.”
Too much social media, too much video games and fantasizing borderline impractical, no fun at all to post it on FBG.
Nik Kannan says
@Kev I think Clarkson is a sell high player right now. Cousins was surprisingly improved last season & we should covet him more than any free agent on the 2015 market. Getting a lottery pick back is uber gravy.
Look I do not think we should part with Randle unless it is him & 2 for Cuz & #5, which i would do in a heart beat if we could part with Nick Young & shed some salary so we can still fill out the roster.
Someone asked what do i want? Well it is simple, I want a 17th championship & to contend every year. Boogie helps get us on our way, & i think Boogie + Mundiay is > Randle or Clarkson + Jahlil. Anyone who disagrees is being unrealistic & doesn’t realize that young players take years & years to develop at the NBA level.
Aaron says
To be clear I’m not involving Randle in my proposed trade. Just the number two pick, and Clarkson and fillers.
Chibi says
Anybody feel differently about Porzingis now that his measurements are in? 7ft 1.5 in tall, 7ft 6 in wingspan, 230 lbs.
jbravo11 says
all these trades are fun to talk about but the reality is we need talent at every position, so with that said we need to keep the #2 pick and select Jahlil Okafor and have our center for the next decade, along with Julius Randle and Jordan Clarkson.
If you want to talk about trading the 27th and 34th, then how about we package them with Jordan Hill and trade them to Atlanta for DeMarre Carroll via sign and trade since Paul Milsap is leaving and we should have enough money to make a play for Goran Dragic..
PG- Goran Dragic
SG-Kobe Bryant
C-Jahlil Okafor
SF-DeMarre Carroll
PF-Julius Randle
2nd unit/Bench
PG-Jordan Clarkson
SG-Jabari Brown
C-Emeka Okafor(if healthy to mentor his cousin)
SF-Nick Young
PF-Ed Davis
rr says
Trading up: I would like to see the FO try to package the picks and move up enough to have a shot at Hollis-Jefferson.
Cousins: I don’t see it happening.
Baylor Fan says
No to any trades for me. Kupchak’s comments about having too young a team next year are utter nonsense. If he was able to hit on all 3 picks this year, he would start to replace West as the all-time Laker great at spotting talent. If he does really well he will get one star and one starter. More likely, he will get a starter and a role player which is okay. It helps to have the extra picks to increase the chance of getting one right. I agree with the sentiment that the Lakers do not have any depth to be able to make trades. If Kupchak should get really lucky and draft 3 productive players, then he will be in much better position to trade one to balance the team.
Kareem says
There’s also the rumored trade with Orlando. But while I’d like to see both, I think that a play for Vucevic or Cousins is unlikely, because both Orlando or Sac would have to covet Okafor and Clarkson.
Does anyone think making an offer to Thaddeus Young is worthwhile? He’s still young, entering his prime.
grumpy says
While I understand the desire to trade for Cousins–there are definitely positives–I prefer that we start from the ground up, especially if it will require us to sacrifice future picks / assets.
I wouldn’t be against grabbing Cousins and getting a high pick in return as this draft seems to be fairly deep, but at the same time, I will somewhat miss developing the #2 pick.
I’m definitely all for packaging our later picks to jump a few spaces higher if we think we can draft Anderson. Hollis-Jefferson seems solid to me and looks to be a great defensive option, but his jump shot mechanics scare me into thinking he’ll be too one-dimensional. I’m not super impressed by Vaughn or RJ Hunter, but hopefully with some work they can become solid pros.
Nick says
I’m with @aaron on this one, only wanted to give up #2 and Clarkson
for Cousins and #6…. Very unlikely so noth worth beating a dead horse.
—-
I read though that the Lakers were interested in trading #27 not to move up, but to preserve the guaranteed ~$900k they would owe that prospect, while acquiring a future pick, and maintaining cap space for free agency…. Which I completely disagree with.
Aren’t you guys (@oldtimer) worried how much stock we put in free agency year in and year out? We missed out last year w Melo, and from what I’ve read about this year Aldridge, Love, Gasol, Dragic, Butler, Monroe, Harris are all long shots at best. The only thing that sounds like a lock is over-paying Rondo(which is the last thing we need). And then what we wait for Durant? – Who everyone thinks they have a shot at.
Just seems like we keep playing this waiting game, trying to hit a home run, instead of slowly acquiring solid, developable, players piece by piece through the draft and low risk / delayed reward trades.
Anyone else sharing this concern?
Kareem says
Coach Karl trying to ouster Cousins? This is all very Macabre. I don’t know the angle of this where this is smokescreen from an agent/outside team. If Karl is unhappy, why would they keep Cousins? Why would Cousins want to stick around? I don’t want to get my hopes up, but where there is smoke, there’s fire.
http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/06/23/report-george-karl-pushing-kings-to-trade-demarcus-cousins/
Chibi says
Kupchak and Karl *were* college roommates.
Aaron says
So my trade proposal that Darius wouldn’t let me post a couple weeks ago and that I posted yesterday is now a real rumor. I mean does my genius have any limits?
Kamenetzky Brothers
5h5 hours ago
Kamenetzky Brothers ?@KamBrothers
I’ve been plenty critical of the FO’s approach to rebuilding, but if they manage to get Boogie, keep a lottery pick/Randle? Day-um. BK
Ed says
Clarkson will not be included in any deal. As for Randle,no one really knows what his potential is. For that reason, don`t think the Lakers would give him up before the Lakers and rest of League determine his true ceiling and floor. So that leaves give#2,no Randle or Clarkson,get#6+DC.
George Best says
Aarons trade suggestion is great(Clarkson and #2 plus non Randle filler for Cousins and #6) but I cant see the Kings doing that and the Lakers might need to be careful as what if they get stuck with number 6 being Porzingis. It would be a coup if 6 is Mudiay or Winslow.
fern says
I kind of warming up to the Cousins deal, if we give up the #2 and #27 pick up Hill option and ship him to Sacto for Cousins and the #6 pick , we could end up with a 24y/o Cousins with his 24 ppg 12rpg an almost 2 blocks a game and with that #6 pick we could draft sayyyy, Mudiay, totally guessing here pretty sure it would take more than that but that’s a return I could live with. I said before he is a knucklehead but maybe a change of scenery benefit him.
Brian P. says
Just curious why is everybody mentioning ‘filler’ when talking about trading for Boogie? Filler is only needed to make salaries match for teams over the salary cap. Lakers are under and can absorb Boogie’s contract without the return filler. That actually is a bonus for the Laker because the other team doesn’t need to take filler and can instantly free up cap space (if desired). Make Lakers a more desirable trading partner.
BigCitySid says
-Based on reports I’ve read, Cousins & Coach Karl’s relationship has reached the point of “no make-up”, so it looks more and more as if he will be moved…regardless of what Vlade wants or says.
-Let’s remember one thing… our Lakers are in a GREAT spot. Cousins, Okafor, KAT or Russell will be in a Laker uni…sweet
fern says
If there is a trade I rather send Randle away than Clarkson, at least we know we have something in Clarkson Randle is an unknown commodity and could still be a bust. My preference would be to keep both but we will see if something happens first.
Craig W. says
Nick,
You’re predisposed to think badly about the front office. We DO NOT know what they are thinking, because security is tighter than Fort Knox around there. Does the fact that Aaron floats his rumor on this blog, then the same rumor comes back from another source, make that rumor any more true? — Absolutely not. Just because you hear something from several people does not mean it becomes fact.
This is a time when many different people, from many different places, actually have a responsibility to float different rumors, for the simple reason that they cloud the air and prevent cogent thinking – making it easier for some GM to indulge in a fantasy and make a mistake.
This thread shows the precise reason Darius maintains the rules about trades that he does. We may get some information, and we may indulge ourselves in some original thinking, but about 99% of what we are reading is garbage. Can you pick out the 1%? I know I can’t.
Craig W. says
fern,
I like your thinking – #2, #27, Hill for Cousins and #6. I suspect we would do this after the #5 pick has been made and Mudiay is still out there. If this were true, we would probably be angling for Upshaw with #34 – perhaps trade it and money or Young to get to #31.
R says
@Nick “… We missed out on Melo..”
Good thing, too. We “missed out” on a huge overpay for a dude that’s on the shelf …
R says
Well, of course we already have one of those.
Shaun says
#27 and Hill on a 1 year contract is not worth the #6 pick … you could argue that #2 might also not be enough for boogie given he is now established
I am against trading Clarkson – he was the best guard drafter last year … payton can’t shoot … was 1st team all rookie .. and towards the end of the year was giving you 1 3pt 20pts 5rbs 5 ass 1-2 stls per game … even if that was good guy on a bad team stats those are still good stats for a rookie and every other player in the league noticed with westbrook, rose, paul, randolph all saying he was going to be a player in the league … imagine how easier it will be for him when he has players actually creating lanes for him to cut through … everyone is talking like he is trash … was amazing for us last year, he is not filler and i’d keep him over Russel … Evan Turner was even better than Russel when he was at Ohio state and now he’s almost a bum in the league … stanley johnson showed russel NBA level D and he stank … wait till he sees NBA D every night
Fern says
“We missed out on Melo” yeah and he starting to break down, we dodged a bullet on that one.
Kevin says
Fern and R: Which makes me wonder about the ‘mutual interest’ between the Lakers and Wade. Hopefully, that is either made up or a diversion thrown out by our FO.
Wade is done. He’s 33 and would require a 4 year deal. Can you imagine a 37 year old Wade at the end of his deal? Well I guess we can because we have a preview of that with a 37 year old Kobe. Lebron left Miami partly because Wade can’t pull his weight anymore. He averages about 25 missed games a year now.
Please tell me that is is a ruse and there is no mutual interest here. This would be a mistake of Kobe proportions.
T. Rogers says
“I can see why Darius normally prohibits trade speculation. Reading some of these posts its clear that the wheels have fallen off the wagon.”
—
Yes, the wheels have fallen off and the wagon is stuck in a ditch. Cousins is talented. He’s also a headcase. And lets not forget Byron Scott’s constant employment of “tough guy” rhetoric. Plus add in Kobe’s “develop them by fire” approach. Putting Cousins in a locker room with Kobe and Byron would be asking for an all out melt down by All Star break.
And as good as Cousins may be his team won a grand total of 29 games last season. He’s not the answer. Draft Okafor. Find a steal in the late first round. And hope like heck you can pry away Jimmy Butler.
fern says
I don’t doubt this Wade-Lakers “interest” is just a negotiation tactic by Wade, I don’t think the Lakers are stupid enough to give Wade the contract he is looking for, that would be beyond stupid and it would destroy all the Lakers have accomplished the last 2 years.
Vasheed says
I don’t see Cousins happening. The Kings aren’t going to give Cousins for an unproven pick at #2, Clarkson, and some late picks. I don’t see the Kings willing to part with their 6th pick. I would suspect the Lakers would ahve to package Randle too and by this point the Lakers are gutting their youth movement to have Kobe with Cousins personality problems aside. This deal makes no sense.
Shaun says
What about trading for rudy gay as our 3?
He signed a 3 yr 40mil extension which is fairly cheap at 13 per year
We could send nick young 27 and 34 for gay and draft jahil at 2
Have clarkson at the 1,kobe 2, gay 3, randle 4, okafor 5
And then if we miss out on FAs take on lee and the #30 pick from GS
Other 3 that would be great would be ariza but i dont see houston trading him with his great contract
Gay would cement the 3 spot and still give us max room when kobes contract expires with a good enough base to lure a top FA
Aaron says
Craig,
I didn’t float any rumor. Ask Darius. He deleted my trade proposal a couple weeks ago. This was just a very specific trade idea I came up with weeks ago that I thought the Kings and the Lakers would both be interested in. It just so happened Darius opened up this thread to trade proposals right before an actual real rumor about my specific trade idea was outed by the Kings who obviously don’t like the fact this is the most they are being offered for Couisns. It’s all one giant coincidence. I didn’t hear this from my inside source with the lakers. I literally just happened to think of a specific trade proposal the lakers thought of that is reportedly being discussed in the framework of a three team deal. I had zero idea this was actually happening. Yesterday a thread opened up to reader trade proposals and I threw my idea out. It just so happened to be a very good idea because I’m a basketball genius.
Calvin says
Vasheed – do you think Sacramento trades Cousins? Or do they fire Karl? If I were the Kings, I’d go for #1 = trade Cousins and #6 to TWolves for #1 and Pekovic.
Calvin says
Aaron – the Kam brothers probably visit this site for content and got the idea from you. You’re the Woj of this site.
Rubenowski says
I read yesterday that Okafor is really 6’9 or so. Any truth to this? I mean, I did think he was kinda small and that he didn’t get up too high, so maybe it’s true (though he does have a powerful slam). If so, could that be the reason the Lakers are looking to move their pick? But damn, hopefully Jah turns this into motivation to be real good. Heck, for all we know Kupchak could’ve planned this all along to fuel his fire to improve on D and free throws.
I’ve fallen in love with his offensive game (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vcBi16KB_A). It would suck to have wasted all that time on some other team’s player.
Vasheed says
I wouldn’t mind trading down in this year’s draft. Perhaps switch picks with Orlando to gt back our pick or anyone else as a trading partner 3-7 who has a future first round pick who could tank for us next year excluding team that don’t have picks. I haven’t anaylyzed the future draft selections of every team other then I know the Knicks have nothing…
I believe Young should be traded and I would love for it to be for a free agent we missed last year G. Vasquez. I would toss in the 34th pick to sweeten the deal. Vasquez is a nice glue guy that you can use at PG, SG, and SF. I love these guys who add flexibility to a roster.
Nick says
Fern & R,
The “missing on Melo” comment is exactly what I’m trying to say about the FO and free agency…
I didn’t want Melo either, or Wade, or even Love for what it’s worth. But that’s the thing with free agency, especially when the lakers are this bad – you can’t be selective about who you get, you just have to get someone. So that is why I do not understand why Mitch and the FO place so much stock in free agency and want to potentially trade #27 to save a $900k contract (there was a report of that the other day).
Additionally, sounds like the best shot we have in free agency is over paying Demare Caroll and picking up Rondo… What a waste
Vasheed says
@Calvin,
I don’t think they will fire Karl at this point and Divac has been fairly outspoken that he won’t trade Cousins. Your Timberwolves deal I think looks a lot better then what the Lakers can reasonably offer. I still wouldn’t be sure the Kings would pull the trigger on it.
Vasheed says
@Rubenowski,
I saw that reported on Forbes that Okafor is 6’9-1/2″. However, it was a measurement from when he was 17 years old. Okafor did not participate in the draft combine for measurements.
Craig W. says
Aaron,
Actually I wasn’t trying to criticize you or imply anything about how you get your information/ideas. I was using your comment earlier in the thread, and the fact that you said it had been copied elsewhere, as an example of how some people can take a rumor, see it repeated elsewhere, and then presume it is now a fact.
You are a very visible participant in this blog and I thought everyone would be familiar with your comment.
anyrotmg says
I think cousin trade is a wishful thinking on our part… it should cost a lot more…
Kevin says
@ Shaun: Regarding Gay and Ariza
In my mind acquiring either of Gay/Ariza would be a final move for a contender. The Lakers are so far from competing that bringing on a 28-30 year old is not a good idea. I am a big believer in trying to have a majority of your core on the same time horizon. Randle is 20, Clarkson is 23, Okafor/Towns are 19 — target FAs: Monroe is 24, Butler is 25, Knight is 23, Middleton is 22, Harris is 22.
With the potential of being so young its not unreasonable for the Lakers to need 2 -3 years to learn how to win. In that case Gay becomes 31/32 and Ariza becomes 32/33. Their skills would be waning just as the team begins to reach its peak.
Darius Soriano says
Vasheed, that was a measurement in socks. He’s listed at 6’11” in shoes. The article in question, written by Mark Heisler, also mentions a lack of length repeatedly, but Okafor has a 7’5″ wingspan and a 9’2.5″ standing reach. On twitter, Heisler said he spoke with a source in the Lakers which prompted his article. I don’t know what to make of this story, to be honest. My first instinct is to dismiss it since he’s using measurements in socks (these dudes play in shoes) and his comments about length seem strange considering we have measurements on this stuff. Whatever.
Aaron says
Craig,
Ha… I promise you I didn’t start this rumor. NBA media types don’t visit blogs to create rumors. They are fed info from teams and agents. Additionally I said flat out this was just an Aaron trade idea. I didn’t say teams were discussing it. It just so happened that I came up with a trade proposal that is actually being discussed by the Kings, Lakers, and Magic. And on top of that the Kings leaked it to the media to try and get better offers for Cousins. And it all came out within 24 hours after I put it out on this site. A giant coincidence I admit. I mean it actually is a pretty freaky coincidence.
Vasheed says
@Darius,
It is not something I’m all that worried about. As you stated Okafor has a nice big wingspan, as I stated the measurement was from when he was 17 and yes in socks.
Shaun says
@Kevin
we can’t only have young guys though … they need mentors and if Kobe is out next year than we have a lot of guys who haven’t yet learned to be professionals …. which is why I think that Philly will continue to regress because none of their players have anyone pushing them … they are only competing with d-league players in practice and in games.
They can be a great core and still have 1-2 veterans playing with them. Look at Orlando … bunch of young guys all at the same age but they are in what year 3 of their rebuild and still no real progress.
I don’t think the Lakers brass wants to keep waiting around to be good and grabbing a couple veterans to mix in with our youth will be expected. Mitch even stated so in his uneasiness of having so many rookies/2nd year players on the team at once.
In relation to that … I’d totally be on board with bringing Matt Barnes back to the Lakers if we want to be decent this year. cheaper 3 and D guy than green and gives us some attitude thats been missing from the team.
Aaron says
I’m watching the Jordan Classoc from last year… Wow. Okafor was so much more athletic in high school. The rumors about his lack of desire and work ethic have to be true. He should be getting more athletic not less athletic. Towns and Mudiay have as you would expect gotten more athletic. This is the biggest red flag for me when it comes to Okafor.
CHearn says
Why would the organization that still believes they were ‘jobbed’ by the Lakers in game 7 of the WCF make a trade that might improve the Lakers in their conference? Since when does a team trade a good player to a rival in their conference? Does anyone believe Shaq will approve that deal? Sacramento King fans hate the Lakers, so why would management risk raising their ire by trading a potential all-star to the team?
rr says
Craig,
Your repeated presumptions about the FO being uniquely tight-lipped are:
a) Unsupported by specifics
b) Dated
Putting in all caps doesn’t make it more persuasive. Again, the plan to get Paul and Howard was leaked the day after the lockout ended. People think badly of the FO because it has put together a really bad team. If the team gets better, people will say nicer things about the FO. Period.
That said, most of this stuff is almost certainly being started by agents.
Rubenowski says
Aaron,
Okafor got injured in February. Maybe that got in the way of working out. Anyway, I think he can work hard once he gets into the NBA. People grow up, especially once they’re with Kobe. I heard somewhere that Kobe was going to be working out with the young ones this summer. Let’s hope it happens.
Anonymous says
rr starts by taking Craig’s argument down.. but then finishes by agreeing with him.
Sometimes you say more by saying nothing.
rr says
Also, I think that if SAC moves Cousins, he will end up in either Denver or Boston.
rr says
rr starts by taking Craig’s argument down.. but then finishes by agreeing with him.
—
Nah. It is two separate points:
1. There is no evidence that the Lakers’ FO is more secretive than anyone else’s and there is actually some evidence to the contrary, as I have cited. Craig’s position on that isn’t really an argument–it is just something he likes to say when he gets frustrated by people bagging on the FO.
2. Most of these rumors about Cousins are probably agent-based. They are trying to get him moved out of Sacto, it appears.
Justin says
Yeah it seems like fans don’t get Cousins trade value. You are not getting back the #6 pick in any deal and you are giving up #2, Clarkson, and Randle. Then going all in on Love and other FA.Don’t see that happening. If Cousins becomes available (and he might) Sac wants a young vet to make a playoff push. Which is why the rumors have Orlando in there. Plus the Twolves deal is so much better than the Lakers. Once teams believe Cousins is available better offers will come in. Lakers do not want to rebuild slowly. Half the fan base was furious with how this year went. They will look to speed it up somehow. Depending on what happens in FA, I think the Lakers will be aggressive this year in making trades. So don’t get too attached to anyone.
Shaun says
“Alex Kennedy: Sources say 76ers and Blazers have discussed a deal that would give Philly #23 pick in exchange for #35 and #37 picks (and possibly more).”
So these types of trades are already happening … Teams trying to move out of the 1st round so they can shed salary and prefer 2nd round picks
I’m thinking we might be able to move up from 34 to the 20s with just cash added to the deal … Cav’s at 24 could easily be in play as suggested by the post
Nick says
R & Fern
About the “missed on Melo” comment.
That was exactly my point, I did not want Melo, and don’t want Dwade, or Love for what it’s worth. But that is the trouble with free agency – especially when you’re as bad as the Lakers are right now. It’s that you HAVE to get someone in free agency, and often (especially in the Lakers case) you can’t afford to be picky.
That is why I am worried that the Lakers are so concerned with preserving cap space for Free Agency bc who knows what you are going to get, and how that all plays out. BTW when I refer to “preserving cap space” I am talking about them trading #27 to preserve the $900k guaranteed money they would owe that player (I read that story the other day).
___
And again only would want Cousins, if we landed the #6 pick too. And did not have to give up Julius AND Clarkson. Highly unlikely, I know.
Aaron says
rr,
The nuggets and celtics don’t have the number two pick in the draft.
rr says
rr,
The nuggets and celtics don’t have the number two pick in the draft.
—
No, but they do have multiple tradeable guys and picks, guys George Karl probably likes, and they are not considered to be the embodiment of evil by the Sacto fanbase.
R says
Nick, yes it seems the Lakers feel they need a “star” even if it’s a cold, dead cinder.
I think most fans involved enough to post here want a winning team rather than one populated by cold dead cinders. Having washed up former note worthies on the team is kind of like rooting for a jersey in my mind.
But perhaps we are in the minority.
rr says
R,
One thing to remember is that according to most sources, the FO:
a) Offered a max deal to Carmelo Anthony
b) Offered Pau a two-year deal with a NTC. Pau himself has said this.
So.. it seems that the FO was trying to put together an over-30 big 3 of Kobe, Pau and Melo.
So, yes, I think there is reason to be concerned that the FO is overly concerned with getting big names rather than going with a drill-down rebuild. This is one reason that the KBros have been so critical of the FO.
Aaron says
rr,
Who do the Nuggetts and celtics have that is more valuable than the second pick in a great top heavy draft? They don’t. Average picks aren’t attractive. Isiah Thomas isn’t an attractive asset. These guys are easy to get. The Celtics just got him very easily. It’s pretty simple. The Lakers have the most to offer. And yes Karl wants to win now. That’s why the Magic are involved in this deal. Please explain your math as to why you think Boston and Denver are bigger players in this in spite of all reports?
As far as Kings fans hating the Lakers… All teams care about is their own house. They care about getting the best return. Whoever will give them the most for cousins is where they will send cousins.
BigCitySid says
-Actually I don’t think the trade talk is any crazier than trying to figure out who the Lakers will take at #27…and it’s a much more entertaining. Gives me a better picture of some of the posters here previously protected by ” The Darius No Trade Talk Proclamation”.
– Surprised I haven’t heard conversation about a new “Big 3” in L. A., consisting of Kobe, Cousins, and LaMarcus making Kob’s last play off run. L. A. in L. A. would be a natural, and L. A. wouldn’t have to worry about playing the 5.
– If the Lakers do get Cousins…it’s time to rewrite the entire script.
Calvin says
Unless Lebron tells Love to leave, I think Kevin Love will want to stay with the Cavs. For Love, it is a free ride to the NBA finals. Why suffer through the torment and stress of fighting through super teams in the west, when you can coast to the finals in the weak east riding in Lebron’s bus? Unless Lebron is injured, I don’t see any scenario where they don’t end up in the finals again.
Todd says
@BCS: Surprised I haven’t heard conversation about a new “Big 3? in L. A., consisting of Kobe, Cousins, and LaMarcus making Kobe’s last play-off run. L. A. in L. A. would be a natural, and L. A. wouldn’t have to worry about playing the 5.
___
Not picking on you BCS, as I very much respect your comments. But you brought up something I hope never happens.
I recall Mitch talking about how the Lakers were not going to go all in for Kobe’s final year. I liked that rhetoric from Mitch more than his recent ‘not too many rookies on the roster’ comments.
I suppose one way to approach the rebuild is to go all in a burn through your young assets (#2 pick, Randle and Clarkson) and roll the dice with Cousins, Aldridge and Kobe. But in my mind that mocks the fan base who has watched the FO make poor decision after poor decision while promising a better future.
By this I mean the FO could have pulled together a similar core at numerous points (Kobe, Melo, insert free agent) in the last few years but they didn’t because they didn’t have the gravitas to pull in elite free agents and they were quite frankly spending too much time tripping over themselves in an embarrassing comedy of errors.
To put the product on the floor (quite frankly awful) that they did for as long as they did with the promise of building a long term contender as the reward for our patience … and to find out that Kobe, LaMarcus and Boogie is all we have to show for it would be an epic fail in my mind. It shows an inability of our FO to identify a plan and stick with it. I don’t think Kobe, LaMarcus and Boogie gets us as far as we deserve to go.
A better approach is to continue assembling a young core and supplement that with free agents that fit the core’s time horizon. It’s been said by many but it bears repeating: The West is loaded. It makes no sense to try and leapfrog six teams to become 1st round meat for a top ranked team. There is a benefit to taking a little time to get this right – namely the teams in front of us won’t be able to sustain their performance. Plus, a young core will need a few years to gel. Why add a 30 year old free agent to a team that is still 3 years away from peaking?
I am a longtime fan going back to the early ‘70s. I would much rather we keep our pick and select the best player available. I want to watch a young team grow into a championship contender. Yes, we may only improve by 10 games next year and still lose 50. I won’t mind that because I know our young core will get better. I know as an organization we’ll have hope for the future.
To me that’s better than a team built around a 37 year old Kobe, a 31 year old LaMarcus and a head case like Cousins. To me that team is already on the clock with a short window of opportunity. Been there, done that.
smokedaddy says
Darius-
This trade proposal discussion exception must be like a ONCE a year thing. Thats all I can take. Now, OTOH, wouldn’t it be something for the blog if, say, an agent or a team actually got the urge to push the Cousins rumor from Aaron’s comment? Of course, I have a proposal in mind too. My ex-wife, the harpy neighbor woman, and my Aunt Gertrude for Taylor Swift. Whadya all think?
smokedaddy says
Ok, I just read this and maybe I stand corrected. Apologies to Aaron. http://sports.yahoo.com/news/sources–george-karl-pushing-for-kings-to-trade-demarcus-cousins-051748948.html
So, if we can get Cousins on the cheap ala Aaron’s deal then of course lets do it. Considering the tax$ Sactown sucks out of us every year, its the least they could do. Both Vlade & Karl have ties here that may override their hater fans. Still, I gotta believe there are other teams that will start knocking & proposing so I kind of doubt we’ll be getting a steal. Still…
rr says
Incidentally:
With speculation swirling about DeMarcus Cousins’ future with the Sacramento Kings – just as Thursday’s NBA draft approaches – team Vice President Vlade Divac reiterated that the franchise has no intention of trading their All-Star center.
“It is not happening,” an irritated Divac told The Sacramento Bee when asked about the reports earlier Tuesday. “We’re looking for ways to improve our team. We need time to work on that, and draft a good player. I don’t care what the agents or the media people are saying.”
Justin says
You know what I find interesting. Not that long ago (like two weeks ago) the Lakers were taking out Russell, Okafor, and Mudiay to dinner because they wanted to get a sense of their personality. There was a ton of talk about how important personality was to the Lakers. Now we are looking to trade Randle (good guy), Clarkson (good guy) and the number 2 pick (Okafor-everyone says is an amazing guy, Russell-another nice kid, or Mudiay-another nice guy) for Cousins (a head case that talented). So do the Lakers value personality of not? I get the feeling these leaks are coming from Cousins and George Karl. Neither of them want to work together and it makes sense from both of those guys. Karl wants to play uptempo, so he can either get Lawson (in a three teamer), Vucevic, Clarkson, Russell, etc. Cousins wants out but would want to go to the team of his choice and not want to end up with the Bucks or something. So which is it? Character or talent
Shaun says
I agree …. i liked our post shaq rebuild time … got to see bynum grow i to who he was , loved lamar, amd enjoyed sasha,farmar,ariza and shanwow grow … sprinkled with some trades for vets pau and artest
That was building ..to me we are just in step 1 … getting the base ready
Mid-Wilshire says
Here’s the latest from Vivek Ranadive (the owner of the Sacramento Kings). This sounds pretty definitive to me. Why speculation continues to swirl regarding the supposed Cousins trade is beyond me:
“We have zero interest in moving Cousins, so I don’t know where that’s coming from. But if you like, you should talk to Vlade (Divac), because I know Vlade feels exactly the same way. And I’m deferring to Vlade on everything. We have no interest in moving him. From my perspective, it’s really simple: we feel that he’s a one-of-a-kind player, and we have a group of players right now and we’re going to build on it.”
This quote is from Ranadive’s conversation with Sam Amick of USA Today from yesterday, Monday evening, June 22.
We should move on to other topics. The discussion of this so-called trade is silliness. It will not happen.
George says
Todd: Been there, done that.
__
I get where you are coming from. If we go for a quick fix it would feel like the FO has changed strategies yet again. I agree that we’ve already endured the pain of losing and just when we are about to enjoy the upside (a young talented core) we are hearing that the FO may trade all of our young assets and cap space for a ne’er-do-well center.
Because all the Lakers would have is an aged Kobe and Cousins they would need to use their cap space to sign free agents in order to be competitive. That sounds like is a FO which doesn’t trust itself in building a young team through roster development and patience.
Its like the FO is OK with trading away key pieces that could form a team with huge ceiling in exchange for a team that has a higher floor. Sounds like they are managing out of fear. Dr. Buss and Jerry West never did that.
Aaron says
Smokedaddy,
You shouldn’t apologize. Trade threads are usually ridiculous. You also don’t need to apologize because I did come up with my proposed trade out of thin air. As I’ve said now many times. It just so happened that someone leaked my exact trade rumor soon after Darius finally let me post it on this site. So yes. You are and were correct… I pulled that proposal out of my rear end. Everypne here started talking about it only because it was leaked. If that didn’t happen nobody would have been talking about the trade I thought would bring the most return for cousins. That being the Lakers fake off I proposed. Or at the time I bought it was fake. It just so happened it wasn’t after the fact.
P. Ami says
Nice work Caleb, welcome.
Boogie would be an interesting get. I’m still partial to collecting talent and then using the Lakers’ cachet in attracting FAs to an up and coming team. Trying to force a playoff appearance out of Kobe’s last season seems a waste of an opportunity to build a lasting foundation for teams that can compete over a long period of time.
bleedpurplegold says
@calvin: a 100% healthy bulls roster, the possibility of the hawks staying together and being in shape this time around (their stretch bis were off, they desperately needed korver and thabo) as well as a wizards team with a healthy wall, pierce coming back and a year more experience under their belt….they all will be very dangerous….i dont see lebron making it to the finals again next season, 6 times in a row would be crazy….
Regarding the cousins trade:
I like this guy, read that he donated 1 million dollars to the community after he got his big contract and is generally very active in sacramento, supporting children, schools as well as a local animal shelter….could see him becoming a fan favorite in la if keeps this approach….
Regarding his on-court and team play, i think a pre-season with kobe could do wonders for him….his skill level is tremendous already, best center in the nba today, 25/12 guy for the next 6-7 years….would love to see him in purple and gold
I would try to make a three team deal, looking like this:
We get: cousins, farried,#6
Sacto gets: lawson, #2
Denver gets: hill, young, gay, clarkson, our 2 latter picks
Everybody knows karl loves lawson, i think he would take this trade in a heartbeat, as they get rid of gay, whom karl doesnt want to have, and get a young stud like okafor to replace cousins…. the tricky part is to satisfy the nuggets, who lose a stud at pf and a solid point….lawson gets replaced by a rookie first team guy, which isnt that bad, while farried will get replaced by hill, not bad either….but that isnt enough to make them do it, so sacto gets rid of the unloved gay (former allstar with huge potential in the right system) and sends him to denver, while we put a wing scorer and great 6th man in young and our 2 picks on top to make it work for all parties….dont know about the cap restrictions on this 1, but i would think that a trade like this would satisfy every party involved
We would then go on to draft one of winslow, russel, mudiay, steal away butler or harris and have the following group:
Mudiay/russel/winslow – free agent
Kobe – brown
Butler/harris – johnson
Farried – kelly
Cousins – davis – sacre
Immediate contender, especially since this group of guys suits byrons style of play…great defensive unit with a lot of firepower
Nik says
Rubenowski –
I have been worried about Jahlil’s actual measurements too. he passed the eye test in the NCAA, but did struggle against the length of Kaminesky. I figure at the time he was younger & had to carry the burden of the team, more on most nights, & also didn’t figure we could land him in the draft – Okafor being the consensus #1 pick. But – it was college & some people are asking if an inch or two matters – the answer is yes. The difference between 6′ 9″ & 6″11 is huge at the pro level. So these measurement questions have made me really nervous. That is why I am even more in favor of a trade down or for a current allstar.
Does anyone have a solid article or proof of Jahlil’s measurements – I’ve seen the ability to palm the ball, not sure about the height & wingspan.
Ed says
A recent photo of KAT and Okafor together in civies shows JO maybe a 1/2 in taller at the shoulder,with a slightly longer neck and head. The Lakers would measure with shoes,and use this in the vertical tests. Okafor has been working out 3 times daily in SB,and reports are he`s already made significant progress in his lateral mobility and vertical. He seems like a guy who will work hard to achieve his dreams,has good IQ,and will respond to challenges on and off the court. I look at Clarkson and Randle in the same way until they prove me wrong on the court. Glad the Cousins stuff seems to be cooling. Often the best deal is the one not made.
smokedaddy says
Aaron-
I know you want the #6 & Hezonja/Mudiay. So would I. But would you trade the #2 straight up for Boogie? My guess is you would if it mean’t trading Oaks or Russell. Me-I’m not sure. In any event, chances are Boston or Denver or someone else will come up with a superior offer to yours. Also, I’ll point out that none of the media reports give any details of what the Lakers might be offering or what Sac would accept.
My take on the draft is that its becoming more & more clear that we have really 4 levels of talent in the 1st round.
We have Towns heads & shoulders above everyone else.
Picks 2-7 of Okafor, Russell, Porzingis, Hezonja, Mudiay, Winslow, not necessarily in that order.
Picks 8-26 roughly of Kaminsky all the way to Anderson/Wright including some very good wings and PGs.
Everyone after 26 unless someone reaches which could well happen.
david h says
Caleb: nice job. agreeing with yours’ and erez’s assessment in trading up to to obtain small forward Justin Anderson from the University of Virginia. And keeping the big at pick #2 would be enough excitement for me.
two more days: OAK-A-FOR MINN-A-SOTA.
Go lakers
Aaron says
Smokedaddy,
I would not trade our pick for cousins and not get the sixth pick back. Because I think we are drafting Mudiay or Mario. A cost controlled star player is too valuable. Although Cousins is pretty cost controlled himself. It’s a tough call but I wouldn’t do it… Mostly because I think we can get the sixth pick also.
Aaron says
… Scratch that. I would do it if it comes down to that because I think we need someone on team USA to recruit Anthony Davis, Durant, Westbrook etc. Plus it’s really hard to find Centers. Cousins is the best Center in the NBA by a wide margin and he isn’t a great player. He is a very good player. Who is the second best center? Whoever you pick is probably an average to above average kind of player.
J C says
Has there been any talk of us giving the #2 and the #27 to Minny for #1?
Rubenowski says
Nik, Jah may have passed the eye test in the ncaa, but he did not pass the Aaron Eye Test (lol). Darius has said that okafor is 6’11 with shoes on, so that works for me…unless everyone else gets measured without shoes.
I actually think Towns and Okafor are both on the top tier/level. I really think this will be a true rivalry for years to come, and I hope Okafor works his butt off to prove that he’s the best from his class. Can’t wait for thursday already. Lets just get it over with.
R says
We’ll know more in just 47 hours.
At which point we can obsess endlessly about free agents.
=o)
Chibi says
Lakers brought Terran Petteway and Norman Powell back for 2nd workouts.
Vasheed says
So I watched a bleacher report video…. to paraphrase, “The Lakers should draft a big because guards are easy to come by. Next the Lakers should think about trading their later picks for a guard since there are slim pickings for guards in free agency this year.”
I’m watching this and all I can think is “do you listen to yourself?” =/
grumpy says
Count me in as one of those who would like to get the draft over with. While it’s exciting to see lots of things going on, it’s draining to follow (especially if you’re like me and keep refreshing Google for news…lol). In my ideal world, we’ll draft Okafor and trade up to get Anderson and then call it a night.
Gunslinger says
I love the idea of trading up to #1, and would for sure give up #27 to get Towns
Renato Afonso says
I’m just waiting for the draft. All these trade discussions are pointless until one team (any team) confirms anything. It’s the silly season…
Ed says
Between the agents,teams, and media,the rumors and hype get more extreme the closer we get to Thurs. The Laker FO must be feeling the pressure with the draft,trades and FA. Something about the heat and kitchen. I would consider Russell more seriously if we didn`t have such a hole at C,with Mitch talking about how hard it is to get a quality big thru FA or trade.
PurpleBlood says
I would consider Russell more seriously if we didn`t have such a hole at C,with Mitch talking about how hard it is to get a quality big thru FA or trade.
___
excellent point Ed
___
I´m with Renato on this whole FA chatter – reminds of an old song the Plastic Ono band recorded long ago – starts like this:
¨Fever is rising
Temperature´s high…¨
That´s a little what it feels like around here these days…
Personally, I feel quite calm about tomorrow. I really believe we´re slowly getting back on track; that is: that bleak, iron cloud (thanks Bob) that´s been hovering over us for the last 3 + years is giving way, finally
Oldtimer says
I agree with you, Renato. Stay on course and keep those rumors spinning that somehow destabilizes team’s relationship with their stars. When a player is mentioned as Lakers target, it creates upheaval on other team like Kings or Heat, it will destroy their budgeting on cap allowance. Like for example, Dwade creates a headache for Riles to retain or give away.
On the other hand if Lakers are willing to trade their youth, then their tanking did not not go in vain nor yield meaningful rewards. Cousins is not a reward but a germ that creates instability. Rondo is a waste of cap space if the fellow’s temper gets aggravated.
Therefore, let’s “charge” tomorrow with resolute firmness of a power team. Go for youth and buy the veterans on July 1st. The power of Kobe is dangling like a Democles sword to any star, yes he’s no longer the unstoppable Kobe of the past but that $ 25 M is pure gold cap space next year that Laker can spend to the qualified future Superstar. Secondly, Lakers fans are hungry, they have been insulted in adventurism in hiring outsiders; sold out by lakers standout who are now working with other teams; injuries and several due mismanagement of playing time or poor court management. Tomorrow will be our day to be great again.
Hale says
Purple,
Threads like this are best accompanied by calliope.
Vasheed says
If ever there was a year to draft a guard and sign a center this is the year. The double PG back court of Russell and Clarkson is too good to pass up. Clarkson as a ball handler and slasher compliments Russell’s court vision and outside touch. The Lakers fit Russell like a glove.
To accomplish the same thing in the market leads to Dragic. To get Dragic it will cost at or near max type salary with Miami reportedly offering 80 million over 5 years at the moment. Add to this Dragic was unhappy playing double PG with Phx and it is a less than ideal situation on the Lakers roster. After Dragic there are a slew of decent PG’s with restricted status with teams who wish to retain them. And then there is Rondo. Do I need to say more?
For Centers you can swing for the fences with a draft pick like Upshaw. You can plug the hole with guys like Koufos or Asik. You can go for an upgrade with a guy like Monroe. You can try to land a franchise guy like M. Gasol or D. Jordan. Best of all none of these guys are restricted free agents. The Lakers can get started immediately on July 1st.
Restricted status is an important factor. Free agents can be signed on July 1st. restricted agents cannot be signed until July 10th and then the other teams gets 3 days to decide whether or not to match that offer. By going into the the restricted options, the Lakers have to sit on their hands with their cap space while non restricted free agents are being signed by other teams.
I would understand drafting Okafor, but I think Russell is the better fit, and is a much better strategic move to building a full roster next season. I’d also be pretty happy with the Zinger. Nice to have so many good players to choose from.
Anonymous says
Thoughts about signing monta ellis as an FA? … could play 1 or 2 … gets steals goes to the basket aveveraged 19 4 and 5 last year …. missed almost 0 games … id rather draft okafor and sign Ellis around the 10 mil per year mark …. solid value at that amount
Calvin says
@bleedpurplegold – I don’t see how the Hawks, Bulls or Wizards can challenge Lebron. Lebron just coasts in the regular season, then turns it to another level in the playoffs. Yes, Hawks had injuries, but so did the Cavs. Irving was broken down, KLove was out. Imagine Kyrie and Love with Lebron, Moz, Shump, Tristan. Plus, Lebron is going to recruit this summer. Many veterans will take paycuts to ride Lebron’s annual bus to the finals. Bulls will be weaker next season without Thibs.
don ford says
Hype, rumors and excitement aside — worst case scenario we get Okafor and Randle (and Clarkson) next year. I’m good with that! A new era of Laker youth to be excited about!
If we pull off some other miracle to get Cousins or some other big, plus a Russell or the like – all the better.
Mostly it’s just fun to feel that our team is in the mix and on the cusp of meaning something again.
Thanks to all the commenters with all the great rumors, analysis, and… well, there’s some good BS going on too, ha (biggest thanks to Darius for having a trade talk moratorium 98% of the time!)
rr says
ESPN sources say Cavs forward Kevin Love has opted out of the final year of his contract and will be a free agent July 1 9m
24hRx. says
If the ESPN article is semi-accurate about Karl’s desires, as Cousin’s snake-in-the-grass emoji tweet would seem to confirm,
then traded he will be. Randiv & Vlade are publicly approaching it correctly to keep the price up, but he’ll be gone before training camp.
He’s an All-Star & Olympian despite the 5 years spent “developing” with the disfunctional Kings. Imagine where he’d if those years were spent in San Antonio.
Even if our deal is the best deal, I be shocked if Valde traded Cousins to the Lakers, and our deal isn’t going to be the best deal.
Todd says
rr re: Love
The question is did Love opt out with the intent to resign, or, opt out with the intent to leave?
Craig W. says
A listener to ESPN LA put up a 3-team deal that should seem fair to everyone.
1) Lakers get Cousins & #6 pick
2) Denver gets Clarkson & #2 pick
3) Sacto gets Lawson, Faried, Chandler, #34 pick
This would seem to give something for everyone. Sacto loses Cousin’s salary, but gains $28M
Anonymous says
Craig W.
I know it’s not your proposal but no way is that enough for Sacto. If the owner and the GM want to keep Cousins and I’m the coach – I figure out a way to make it work.
Chibi says
How can Love command $30m a year if he is Cleveland’s third wheel? I think he signs a 1+1 deal somewhere else.
I believe Bresnahan’s latest is a kind of smokescreen. It annoys the Kings while keeping other teams in the dark about whether Lakers go big or small.
Craig W. says
I was wrong. Sacto gets #7, and perhaps #34 if necessary. That way they get Hezonga, Winslow, or Willie Cauley-Stein. That improves the haul tremendously and at a budget price.
Cousins’ salary is $16M, therefore Sacto adds $12M and 4 players, while losing 1 player who doesn’t fit their system.
CHearn says
@Craig W.
Number one Is the scenario Aaron devised. If that trade happens, I’m okay with it though I must confess ‘my’ Cousins scare me. Merely because if Kobe goes down with an injury he’ll be the leader, and he’s not developed one iota in that area for Sacramento.
Anon says
I’m not a big fan of Kevin Love due to his defensive abilities (or lack thereof), but I would be OK with him coming on board on a 1+1 deal.
I like Cousin’s game, but I am scared about potential conflicts with Kobe and Byron and worry about potential negative impacts on our young roster (existing and incoming via picks).
Man, things just got complicated for the FO.
Anonymous says
“The question is did Love opt out with the intent to resign, or, opt out with the intent to leave?”
———————————-
Neither. He opted out to get a bigger and/or guaranteed paycheck. That’s the only thing you can infer from that.
rr says
The question is did Love opt out with the intent to resign, or, opt out with the intent to leave?
—
No one knows. Bu he could have opted in for another year. Reports are out there that Cleveland doesn’t want him anymore and is hoping to work a sign-and-trade.
Anonymous says
I know that a lot of UCLA fans would love to see Kevin Love, but does it make sense at this point in time for the Lakers? If so, at what price?
Like any other player, I think he makes sense for the right price and the right contract length. I honestly dont know what that would be though.
Aaron says
http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2015/6/24/8840507/lebron-james-wont-recruit-kevin-love-back-to-cleveland-per-report
You traded for the below average PF!!! You gave up the top pick in the draft for him. You better recruit him moron!
Todd says
Love makes a lot of sense for the Lakers if KAT fall to them. Not so much if they select Okafor.
14.1 says
Wow…glad Darius only allows these discussions once in a blue moon. Cousins(headcase)? Rondo(unproductive headcase)? Gay(old & overrated)? Really? When has a trade that’s been rumored on ESPN, CBS Sports, and on a Laker blog ever turn out to be true? The FO has always been really quiet about any trades and deals (Pau & Paul). The fact that it’s out there most likely means it’s not true and not happening.
Also just because someone comes here and says something that might happen to be viable (only because there is a slight chance of any trade within the right context/situation) doesn’t mean it is true or does that make the person a genius for floating an idea that any armchair GM can come up with. Please. I would think that’s there’s something lacking and weird if someone comes to a blog every day to confirm their confidence and boost their self-esteem by calling themselves a genius and congratulating yourself all the time. That or extreme arrogance with little self awareness.
Let’s get real…Lakers need to build from the ground up. This is the first opportunity the organization has had in a very long time to build and develop a team in this fashion. I hope they keep the #2 pick and get Jah and build around him, Randle, and Clarkson. The team is not contending any time soon even if we added big time free agents (not name Lebron, KD, AD). We might as well build and develop it the right way to allow for financial flexibility to add free agents as the young team develops and as opportunity allows.
J C says
I saw K Love play in high school and he was the real deal. Banging down low and draining 3s.
I think if the Lakers could get him as a FA they’ll do it. He was an A-list player in Minn. He just didn’t quite have the role with Cleveland that gave him the fat stats.
On the other hand, it causes a bit of a logjam at the 4 spot for us. Would Randle come off the bench? Most posters here would say that would retard Randle’s growth. Or possibly Randle moves to the 3?
If we knew Love was coming would we use Randle as trade bait to acquire another treasured asset?
Or did Love opt out simply to re-sign a longer deal with the Cavs, because he feels he has the best chance to win a ring there?
I think Love’s ties to LA are still strong enough to make rumors of his arrival here have a ring of truth. He may be the one free agent we can sign with some star power that’s under 30 and that ain’t bad.
Very curious to see whom the Lakers draft and what other moves are made.
It may soon be safe to hope again.
R says
KAT isn’t falling to the Lakers. He didn’t even have a work out for the team.
That’s a pretty good hint he ain’t coming. So much for the protestations that he would connive his way out of Minny’s clutches.
By the way, if the Blazers sign Love, then awesome. Let’s hope the Lakers land LMA in turn.
That wouldn’t be such a terrible front line: LMA, Randle, and Oakafor.
And yeah, we can quibble about fit all we want – it would be light years ahead of the freak show of the past couple seasons.
KenOak says
“You traded for the below average PF!!! You gave up the top pick in the draft for him. You better recruit him moron!”
This ^ right here! What is Lebron thinking? I think Love is gone.
14.1 says
I think Jah will turn out to be an all-star. If he can be anywhere near Tim Duncan, who he models his game after, then I will be happy. Draft evaluations have been wrong in the past on a number of prospects (like Draymond Green for instance) and their defensive abilities/skills. I think Jah can work on that side of his game and his IQ and current skills can get him there if he is motivated. Of course we won’t know that until the season starts, but I’m willing to wait and see. He could be real good.
Also if Mitch ends up not selecting Jah, I hope he picks Russell over Mudiay. I think Mudiay is going to be a bust. The guy played 12 games for Guangdong. 12! Not the NCAA, but in a Chinese league and could not carry his team to victory. Russell on the other hand looks like he has some pretty good handles, a good motor, good IQ and his shooting can improve with some shooting practice and hard work.
Tim A. says
I have some trade speculation that doesn’t involve DeMarcus Cousins. Mostly because I don’t see the Lakers giving up this year’s #2 + Randle to get him.
My idea concerns a trade down from the #2 spot so the Lakers can draft Willie Cauley-Stein as their big man of the future.
What if all the rumors out of Los Angeles have been a huge smokescreen for Mitch’s big plan to reunite Cauley-Stein and Julius Randle? What if he sees Randle as being able to defend wings while playing as a big and then switch over to guarding bigs while playing in a small-ball lineup? What if he sees Cauley-Stein as his Tyson Chandler/DeAndre Jordan defensive anchor? What if he sees them as offensive blank slates who will rebound well and play with great effort? And what if he sees the two of them complementing each other almost perfectly to serve as the next cornerstones of the franchise? (Who would also be on their rookie deals for the next four seasons.)
Very unlikely the Lakers grab Cauley-Stein at #2. But a trade down in the lottery would make some sense. The Knicks are the only top 9 team that would do this with Okafor on the line. All the rest would probably want Russell or Mudiay in return. After the #9 spot, WCS will certainly be off the board. And he may be gone well before that.
Additionally, as much as I agree with all the best logic regarding the potential of Justin Anderson as a 3 & D wing, what if the Lakers really want to use this draft to shore up the backcourt and instead focus on Delon Wright as a target for pairing #27 and #34 to slide up? Chicago and Cleveland seem the most likely partners. Dallas could be as well if it turns out they have huge FA aspirations for this summer. Even with the new broadcast deal turbocharging the salary cap, every little bit of room helps.
On paper, Wright might not seem necessary with Jordan Clarkson emerging as a possible primary backcourt player. But Wright is a sound defender (who will guard three positions) and who is interchangeable as a playmaker or a guy who plays without the ball. Which means he could be a very good fit along side Clarkson. They would make a very young backcourt. But they would be very affordable.
And with four very young, very affordable, very talented apositional players on the roster, wouldn’t the Lakers begin to look pretty compelling to FAs who want to get paid and who want to win? *cough* Aldridge *cough* Durant *cough*
R says
Tim A – I like the way you are thinking! In fact, I’ve wondered if the Lakers were going to pick Cauley-Stein at #2, even. Seemed like a long shot, but … hey, did they work him out?
And yeah, adding LMA to the mix? … Man.
rr says
Adrian Wojnarowski ?@WojYahooNBA 6m6 minutes ago
Portland is finalizing a trade to send Nic Batum to Charlotte for Noah Vonleh and Gerald Henderson, league sources tell Yahoo.
—
This would seem to indicate that Aldridge is leaving Portland.
PurpleBlood says
Hale, witty as a can be man, lol
___
starting to get antsy now, `bout mañana that is.
BigCitySid says
-No question, this is an exciting time of the year. Yes, read a few Bozo trade ideas, but also some very realistic ones. I for one have enjoyed reading these post a lot more than all the crying post during this past season.
– Darius, I’m making a formal request. Please allow possible trade talk/trade rumors once or twice a year. Like now, and sometime before the trading deadline…a total of two post a year…could be a lot of fun and we’ll learn that much more about our fellow posters.
– This time tomorrow this board will be on fire.
– My plan A: Cousins, any three Laker player/draft combination.
– My plan B: #2 pick (Okafor unless KAT available), Randell, & Clarkson. Low post scoring tandem works well enough in Memphis…I can only hope.
Robert says
BCS: “crying post during this past season” – Are you saying that there will not be any this coming season? For example, might there be some crying if KB hoists up 25 shots in the opener? And with regard to your Plan A: Will there be any crying when Kobe, Byron, and DeMarcus go into a three way fight in the octagon? Just sayin : )
R says
Kobe’s so 2010.
14.1 says
If they FO decides not to trade the two later picks, I wouldn’t mind seeing one of them used on Anthony Brown (SF from Stanford). He could develop into that 3 & D guy. Scouts are comparing him to Draymond Green and Khris Middleton. He also gives effort, plays with heart and has a high bball IQ. He’s projected to go around 33 so he could be available.
Robert says
R: Actually – he is very much 2016. To be exact $24 million worth.
R says
” … To be exact $24 million worth.”
Robert – not my money. =0)
Otherwise, though he’s just a bunch of white noise.
Waiting for him to leave.
Vasheed says
@Tim,
I too really like WCS. I also would love to see a trade down for him. It really depends how far he falls and what assets could be packaged with WCS. That’s actually pretty hard to predict with WCS going anywhere from 4 to 11. WCS fits the mold of what I would consider the future model of an ideal NBA center.
Any_one_mouse says
” … To be exact $24 million worth.”
Robert – not my money. =0)
Otherwise, though he’s just a bunch of white noise.
Waiting for him to leave.
————————————————————————
Seriously? This is how you treat a legend who gave his heart and soul to the team, and brought 5 championships and an insane amount of joy to the Lakers?
It isn’t your money, but if it were, you would appreciate him a lot more. I’m ashamed of some of you here. The man earned every $ he has been paid – for all the money the Lakers have given him, he has brought 10 times as much to the team/brand. How quickly people forget! No wonder people say this is just a business…
Calvin says
According to Woj, Vlade’s checking to see if he can pick Kupchak’s pocket. Offering Cousins plus Carl Landry for #2 pick, Randle, Clarkson and other assets.
Oldtimer says
Let us do the math, Lakers current salary about $ 37M and salary cap is about $ 66.3M without the new TV rights. At this time, Lakers can spend S29 M
Here is my move. Retain #2 Okafor or Towns
Package #27, #34, Young, Sacre and Kelly to get the wish list. The wish list is composed of players who can immediately helped the franchise on each position. The player has a good PPG and capable of defense under Scott coaching.
Bid for the players on the wish list using $ 29M. Lakers could go beyond salary cap to pay luxury taxes because they are the Lakers willing to pay for quality players.
Here are my wish lists:
Jimmy Butler SG 20 PPG
Goran Dragic PG 16 PPG
Tobias Harris SF 17 PPG
De Marre Carrol SF 17 PPG
Marc Gasol C 17 PPG
Kevin Love PF 16 PPG
LaMarcus Aldrige PF 23 PPG
Brandon Knight PG 17 PPG
Reggie JacksonPG 14PPG
Khris Middleton SG 13 PPG
DeMarre Carrol SF 12 PPG
Is it not possible to convince three to four players to join the Lakers?
Why trade our young assets who have promising future? Nothing is guaranteed even if you have a young roster, a star roster or mix youth/veteran roster. It is chemistry, camaraderie and luck with less injuries come playoff time. #2 is a privilege that is hard to accomplish, why trade it with a jerk who has not gone to the playoffs or win any championship.
Robert says
Mouse: I am hoping for years 21 + 22. And I still think they are possible. I have said in the past – I understand the anti-KB group, but I feel their disdain is misdirected. Whether KB gets more years or not, his time here is finite. Not so in other cases.
Aaron says
@WojYahooNBA: Sources: Lakers, Kings exchange framework of trade centered on DeMarcus Cousins today, discussions could intensify Thursday. Story soon. http://flip.it/khEJD
Good to remember the Lakers main goal is Anthony Davis… And he doesn’t want to have to play out of position at center. Having the best Center in the NBA in his prime is a great thing to have when seducing him two offseasons from now.
Shaun says
Probasketball talk has a rumour of us sending #2, randle and clarkson to sacremento for cousins and landry
……gtf out of here with that garbage
Baylor Fan says
Sacramento will not make any trades with the Lakers. For those who say that Kobe’s salary does not matter; one of the Lakers’ reasons for unloading the #27 pick is to save salary. Every dollar does matter, even if you do not care about next season’s record. That is why loading up on young players is a great idea when you want to chase max salary stars.
anyonemouse says
Robert:
It’s not the money or the years – it’s about the man. Very, very few have played the game better. The man is a living legend, and he’s being skewered by our own “fans”. Imagine if some of these guys actually owned/ran teams?? SMH
bluehill says
I hadn’t seen much of Cousins, so I looked at some highlight clips on youtube. Granted these are the highlights, but I can see why the FO is interested. Cousins seems to have pretty good post moves. He seems fairly fast and agile for a 6′ 11″ 270 center, and he can handles the ball well. In short, he offers some of the versatility and athleticism of Towns and some of the offensive skill of Okafor. He’s young enough to be able to develop his skills and mature. His attitude is a concern, but he seems to play with passion so maybe it’s question of channeling it and getting a second chance in a new environment. Again this is all based on youtube highlights, but at least it’s against NBA talent and over more games than Towns and Okafor. Of course, I don’t know if he’s worth a #2, Randle and Clarkson.
Aaron says
“Minimally, the Lakers have no intention of including Randle in a deal for Cousins, league sources told Yahoo Sports. Randle, a power forward, was the seventh overall pick in the 2014 NBA draft and missed most of his rookie season after leg surgery. The Lakers are reluctant to part with Clarkson too, sources said.”
R says
any one mouse: “Seriously? This is how you treat a legend who gave his heart and soul to the team, and brought 5 championships and an insane amount of joy to the Lakers?”
———————————
Um, I’m not exactly “treating” him one way or another. Simply stating my opinion that his time has come and gone. I think it’s a pretty defensible opinion, too. My issue is only peripherally related to the 48 million over two years, by the way. My concern is more with the distraction and drama rather than performance he brings at this point. Hence the “white noise” comment, which I stand by.
rr says
R,
Your contempt is misdirected. KB doesn’t run the Lakers.
Nik Kannan says
14.1 – I think Jah is skilled but undersized & will take 5 years to be the allstar we want him to be. Listen i wanted Jah as much as anyone, I listen to dancehall reggae what better than a jersey that says “JAH.” But…. Cuz is way better at basketball…
I also think that Outside of randle & Kobe, the kings can have everything they want. I also think that after we get Boogie we have 10 mil for a FA + midseaon to get a trade done for Durant. Meaning would you rather have Clarkson & Jah or Boogie, Rondo, & KD?
This is simple guys – We aren’t going to wait to develop a team for 5 years, we play for rings, we play for next season, I can’t deal with another season of growing pains… the warriors are weak on the interior we can expose & have a championship season quickly… screw the youths, as al D. once said just win baby.
The Kings know the longer this plays out the less they will get, they aren’t contending next season no matter what.
rr says
Also, the KB and drama-free Lakers didn’t exactly tear it up.
anyonemouse says
R: “My concern is more with the distraction and drama rather than performance he brings at this point. Hence the “white noise” comment, which I stand by.”
——————————————————————————————————————————————–
What distraction/drama are you talking about? The Laker starters for this year were Jeremy Lin, Jordan Hill, Nick Young and Carlos Boozer to begin with. Not *one* of whom the team seems inclined to keep going into next year. By all accounts, he has been a great mentor to both of our rookies. What exactly did you expect out of Kobe with this crew?
Aaron says
I think the lakers obviously eventually part with Clarkson and then my exact trade proposal happens and it’s the first time in NBA history a fan correctly predicted a trade (aside from the time I predicted the exact Sessions trade).
R says
rr – touche’
Todd says
Shaun
Probasketball talk has a rumour of us sending #2, randle and clarkson to sacremento for cousins and landry
……gtf out of here with that garbage
—-
Let’s hope such proposals are coming out of the mindless media. I said previously that the Jim needs to show leadership and stay the course by building a young talented core. Gutting the youth on the roster for Cousins forces the team to spend cap space now to compete. This likely means adding 29 and 30 year old talent (Aldridge and Dragic). That team immediately has a fixed window of opportunity.
We are on the verge of putting together a young core that will compete for the long term. Jim and Mitch, stay the course!
Mid-Wilshire says
To exchange “frameworks” re: a possible trade means nothing. It simply indicates that one team has dictated what its terms would be for a possible trade. Those terms could be (and in this case, are) wildly unreasonable and uncompromising. I doubt seriously that the Lakers would trade the #2 pick + Julius Randle + Jordan Clarkson + “additional draft considerations” for Cousins. Furthermore, Sac would want to unload Carl Landry’s contact on to the Lakers. These are outrageous demands.
All of this sounds like the equivalent of saying, in effect: “Go away, kid. Don’t bother me.”
Marlon Brando says
If we can get their #6 pick and boogie in return, I don’t care who we give up.
Sufian says
I don’t know about you guys but I’ll take cousins, Landry and 6th for randle, okafor and Clarkson and 27th. Randle is unproven, Clarkson is a mid tier pg and okafor is a young al Jefferson. Cousins will be a mismatch every single night, it will ease kobes game who will stay for a few more years. We get rondo, draft hezonja, try to get Butler and that’s a young (minus kobe) playoff team. Next year, that lineup looks very good to Durant or other upcoming superstars.
Rondo (sign Beverly)
Kobe (Nick young)
Butler or another sf(hezonja)
Hill/ed davis
Demarcus cousins
Looks like we need a few shooters but that’s a fast young rebuild.
KenOak says
No way in hell that the Lakers agree to the “framework” that’s been reported. I could get behind #2 and Clarkson + 27 for Cousins and #6. Sure. I think that trade is good for both teams if Boogie is as unhappy as he is reported as being.
Anonymous says
Sufian — Rondo can’t play, is a cancer in the locker room and a moody jerk on the floor. At least that roster would continue Jim’s goal of cratering the Lakers brand and ensuring we are irrelevant for the balance of the decade.
bleedpurplegold says
I could understand losing one of randle/clarkson in a possible trade, but losing both would be huge setback….great young guys on cheap contracts are the most valueable asset in the nba today….if vlade really only govws us cousins for both of them, then pass, despite it would be both without our pick but more assets like young for cousins and their pick….but losing bith young guys and our pick would be the worst move of the last decade
rr says
Marc Stein ?@ESPNSteinLine 1h1 hour ago
ESPN sources say Lakers appear to be passing Dallas on list of likely destinations for Aldridge should he leave POR. San Antonio still No. 1
rr says
Stein reporting that Aldridge is seriously considering the Lakers.
barry_g says
Love, Cousins, Green, and Mudiay going into 2015-16?? Dare to dream.
nik kannan says
Can Jah score down on the block against the monsters of the NBA… think Jah vs DeAndre Jordan…. that’s the question we need to be asking before we are truly sure about the #2 pick.
14:1 says
Rondo is an unproductive cancer. No thank you.
If the FO goes after a free agent PG, I hope it’s Dragic.
bleedpurplegold says
@barry: that group plus our bench already being in place plus kobe for a full season, who i think got it at the end of his season last year that he has to be the distributor/finisher….i could smell a ring coming our way….but i cant see us getting all of them…i think both green and love will resign with their current teams, even though i would love to see kevin in forumblueandgold 🙂 would fit with a low post threat like cousins (or jahlil) very well i think 🙂 would also be funny to see gm lebron mess up the cavs #1 pick the last 2 seasons only for a 1yr rental 🙂
@nik and 14:1
Agree with both of you, only that i would pass on dragic if we keep clarkson….like mentioned here before, he wasnt pleased with a two-pg system before and i would play him 30min at least mext year the way he developed….but rondo is really a no go, obly worth a 1yr contract to have cap going into 2016, aka summer of KD
fern says
Like i mentioned before i would trade the #2 and 27 pick, Randle,pick up Hill option and send him and his expiring contract to Sacto for Cousins and the #6 pick. I would not part ways with Clarkson,he has proven his worth, Randle is not proven and could still be a bust. Simpler solution?going after Demarcus but he is 29 already,upside?we would not give up the #2 pick and keep our youngsters. Interesting days in Lakerland.
fern says
My preference is Cousins because his salary is a”bargain” and he is still 24, but im intrigued by a potential pairing of Aldrige and Okafor/Towns and Randle coming off the bench or moving to sf like some people here suggest,i give it a shot. Team would be hugely upgraded and in playoff contention, poised to have a ton of cap space after next season when Kobe comes off the books. If none of these scenarios come to pass, just stay the course with the youth movement. Im prepared for all possibilities but the improvement needs to be real,no more passes.
Anonymous says
DeMarcus = 24
LaMarcus = 29 (30 in July)
Teamn says
Sufian,
I don’t see how that is a playoff team, particularly in the west. Ignoring all the personalities, that group is somewhere around a 10 seed in my opinion.
For all those advocating the Cousins trade, how exactly does this avoid putting the Lakers in the worst place possible, I.e., mid-range talent, almost no real young assets, and no hope of competing for a championship?
Aaron has argued passionately not to turn into that kind of team, but that’s what this trade does. Unless you believe Cousins, the #6, and cap space lures big name FAs or you are secretly hoping for another massive tank to get the #3 pick next year, doesn’t this trade simply get the Lakers a name while reverting back to the (unsuccessful) plan of 2011-2012?
Warren Wee Lim says
The site sure has grown attention grabbing posters, but not necessarily coming from the quality of their posts 😉 Sorry, reality. Try to be famous by improving the quality of the posts and not just shooting for the stars hoping one gets hit every eon.
Warren Wee Lim says
For the record, the Lakers DO NOT have cap space before July 1st.
Any deal involving salary coming in needs to have salary going out.
Jordan Hill cannot be traded if his option for next season is not picked up.
Any players whose contract is an option (Clarkson, Brown, Sacre, Black) that will be included in any deal, their options need to be picked up before being traded.
Warren Wee Lim says
Draft Day is here and I wish our GM was Kevin Costner!
There is what will happen and there is what I hope would happen, two very different things. This is my “dream” scenario for Draft and Free Agency.
Because the Wolves are intent on drafting Karl Towns, the Lakers are left to decide between Okafor and Russell. This might be a done deal and Mitch is inclined to take the all-world big man. However, since Free Agency is where we can make the biggest splash, it would’ve benefited the Lakers (and Knicks) if FA happened before Draft. This is one of the things I’d like the NBA change. Due to this, the best thing for the Lakers to do (in general concept) is draft DeAngelo Russell and sign Kevin Love.
The Lakers have 23.5M in space more or less. Unlike the others who think we have gazillion dollars to spend, signing Love would leave us with 4M to sign other free agents, with no SF and no starting center.
Due to this, the best maneuver the Lakers can do is trade the #27 along with Nick Young for a 2nd rounder. This move frees up 6.3M in additional space, adding to our 4M (and deducting 1) leaves us with 9+ million in space. This would be enough to entice someone like Danny Green and Ed Davis to sign with us.
Draft Hernangomez at 34 and stash him in Europe for 2 seasons.
DO NOT TRADE FOR COUSINS.
fern says
pretty good analisys Warren, I too was thinking about not trading for Cousins for the reasons we all know, but he is “only” making 13.5 mill per season, I aware that the options have to be activated before any trade, the thing about Cousins is he is 24 and his contract is cheap, a bargain really, what im opposed is to trading the entire farm for him, that would be as stupid as what the Knicks did to get Melo when they could had called his bluff and get him in the summer and they would had a contender if they were patient. Randle, Hill expiring contract the #2 and 27th pick for Cousins and # 6 sounds reasonable to me. Totally opposed to trading Clarkson. Im totally on board to max Aldridge if we can get him and cousin’s deal fail to happens. He is 29 but he is in the middle of his prime and we keep all the pieces we have so far.
Aaron says
rr,
Somewhat confident lakers have zero interest in Aldridge who is an older player already in decline. I think they are using this to help leverage with Kings in Cousins trade. If we signed a max guy we couldn’t trade for Cousins.
Teamn,
This is not the scenario here. Because Cousins is a high end talent on a team friendly deal and we would be only parting with Clarkson (back up PG) and the second pick while getting back the best center in the NBA at 24 and the sixth pick in the draft where the best players in the draft (Mudiay/Mario/Winslow) will still be available potentially. Yes we would no longer be able top tank for a top three pick but we would have a very cheap talented young core to attract superstar free agents. And we would have Cousins on team USA recruiting them. He was amoung the most popular players on the team last summer.
Aaron says
I can’t say this enough. The reason the Lakers will only do my deal is because if they gave up more for Cousins they wouldn’t have the young players on cheap rookie deals to attract additional max players to help Boogie recruit three other star players. And then all that would happen would be Boogie singing somewhere else after his current contract expires. The Lakers aren’t trading for cousins unless they are only giving up Clarkson and the second pick and receiving Cousins and the Sixth pick. Anything else is a non starter.
fern says
Read somewhere that the FO is leaning heavily to draft D’Angelo Russell, the plot thickens…
fern says
@Aaron, reading around that the Lakers don’t want to part with either Randle of Clarkson, good decision in my opinion starting to doubt this Cousin deal is going to happen, im biting my nails today…
Todd says
Pass on Cousins. He’s not a winner. Puts up numbers but his team’s don’t win. How can our FO want to build around a selfish talent? Plus adding FA’s with lots of mileage does nothing but eat cap space.
If they do abandon the young core they are building the Lakers will regret it. Do it right, be patient and the Wins will come.
BigCitySid says
– @ Rob, “Will there be any crying when Kobe, Byron, and DeMarcus go into a three way fight in the octagon? Just sayin : )” Lol, actually I’d be surprised if the three of them were able to work in perfect harmony. The 2015-2016 season will be one of transition. And that’s the key that I believe so many are overlooking (not you Rob, you’re pretty realistic) Whether or not the Lakers trade for Cousins or draft Okafor, their on court Laker career is starting. Kobe’s and Scott’s are quickly nearing an end.
– Kobe’s role this upcoming season will be very interesting. Now we’re hearing Kevin Love and the Lakers have mutual interest in each other.
– I’d have to imagine all those who believe Kobe can still get it done big time will be salivating at the possibility of Love & Cousins joining him for his shot at #6.
Randal says
With all these rumors swirling around – trading our young assets for a talented loser (Cousins) and signing high mileage free agents (Aldridge) it is clear to me that Jim has no idea how to build a winning franchise. Left to his own devices he will construct an 8th seed team that is perpetually capped out and constantly looking for that washed up former elite player to push us over the top.
Oldtimer says
It seems the Lakers #2 is the hottest draft pick this afternoon. Sacto is desperate to unload Boogie and Landry and Lakers are open only for draft picks. Push comes to shove Vlade/Karl might swallow Young and Sacre just to get rid of Cousins. I made up the last two in as much as Lakers don’t want to offer Clarkson and Randle. Angelo Russell is the dark horse here. If Lakers go on that direction, they would surely pick another Center in the F/A.
So far there are these names who are possible Laker F/A signings: Love, Aldridge, Butler, Carrol, Jennings, Dragic and Ross. Sign three and we’re back in the game. If the trade on Cousins goes through, maybe we can get only two marquee players. I don’t like Cousins based on his tantrum and foul prone but if it’s inevitable, maybe he gets that 2nd chance in LA with Love or Aldridge. LA is the place to be this summer even if the Dubs got it right this year.
Ed says
I don`t think Sac would make any deal involving the Lakers where it wasn`t clear the Lakers got the worst of it. So no #6 and also no Clarkson means the deal probably doesn`t get done. I`ve read and heard too much on the JO, Russell front from different sources,most of it contradictory. Just have to wait,
rubenowski says
I dont think the Kings have much leverage here. George karl doesnt want Cousins in the team, so they can’t ask for too much now that everyone knows it’s not gonna be good in Sacto if he stays. And Vlade is a former Laker. I think a deal thats good for both sides (or 3 sides) can still happen, though I really want to see a young core with the 2nd pick grow together. All in all, if the Lakers can get Hinkie to swap picks and we get our 2016 first round pick back, I’ll be happy.
grumpy says
Kevin Ding seems to think that the Lakers are going to pick Russell. Also, both him and Ramona Shelburne are saying that Randle has been wowing people behind the scenes. Probably the reason the Lakers are hesitant to give him in the DMC trade.
Warren Wee Lim says
Julius Randle
DeAngelo Russell
Greg Monroe
^ What a great all-lefty team there.
Craig W. says
If we drafted Russell, we would be in a position to trade with either NY or 76ers. We have Russell and they would need to give us their pick + some assets. We might still wind up with Oakfor + something else (like our 1st round pick next year).
Just a strategy to think about. The worst that would happen here is that we would wind up with Russell to work with Clarkson – not a bad result. We could try to get a decent wing with #27 and a center with #34.
Warren Wee Lim says
Kindly add: Brandon Jennings via trade and Thaddeus Young via FA on my list please.
Vasheed says
I will be very happy if the Lakers draft Russell tonight as rumored and I have been arguing to do for a while now.
I personally like Aldridge a lot however, with the Lakers so committed to Randle I would think their first steps should go to getting the right center in free agency. Ideally they would get a defensive center to pair up with Randle. D. Jordan would be my first choice in free agency and worth every penny. There are a lot of free agent options among big men this year and the Lakers should be able to acquire at least an upgrade.
edit: btw Warren, I sorta like your Nick Young trade idea. I would like to get a little more but freeing up that cap would be pretty good.
Simonoid says
Kevin Ding is reporting our FO leaning towards Russell. If it were just some random reporter I’d say it’s a smokescreen. But guys, it’s Ding:
http://m.bleacherreport.com/articles/2506143-lakers-drawing-closer-to-drafting-dangelo-russell-to-lead-team-into-next-era
Aaron says
If the Lakers draft Russell or Okafor you can bet they will be traded in the next minute.
Any_one_mouse says
Jeremy Lamb for a second round pick? Wow, that was a quick drop from prized rookie!!
Oldtimer says
There is a change of focus on Vlade/Karl. Sacto now wanted Hezonja and Cauley-Stein.
http://www.basketballinsiders.com/kings-target-mario-hezonja-willie-cauley-stein/
Nuggets is offering Gallinari for trade
http://www.basketballinsiders.com/source-nuggets-make-danilo-gallinari-available-for-trade/
I’m just reading the type of player being mentioned. It means Sacto and Nuggets are discussing too about their players on trading block. Sacto wanted 6th pick for Winslow 7th pick of Denver (for Cauley-Stein?) plus former players of George Karl in exchange of Cousins + 2nd picks.
So far Lakers and Sacto are on stalemate and cooled off. If Lakers go for Russell, that is the sign that Cousins trade is D.O.A and welcome to LA for Aldridge who lives in Orange County by July 1st.
http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2015/6/25/8845577/lakers-prefer-dangelo-russell-to-jahlil-okafor
Randal says
Warren: Jennings is a shot first PG who relied on quickness and is coming back from an Achiles injury. Young is a limited small four who wants to be a starter and paid big money. No to each.
—
lil pau says
Aaron, I’ll take the under on that: I still think the Lakers will draft and keep Okafor, unless they are certain (have a deal in place) for LMA or DMC.
This day is already crazy, and just beginning….
smokedaddy says
Like Darius, I’d be happy with either Russell or Okafor. I’d be delirious if we could get Philly to give us back our #1 next year if we can swap, probably after the pick is made. So, for that to happen without us actually drafting Russell, Mitch needs a credible reporter to push this, ie Ding. Keep that in mind.
I’m also assuming that the rumored deals for DMC with Randle & Clarkson both going along with the #2 are coming from Sac or the fevered minds of your typical reporter. I’d only give up Randle and keep Clarkson if it meant getting the #6 as well. Maybe take on some contracts if it gets done after the 7/1. Don’t know why Sac would do this tho instead of leaving out Randle and keeping #6 other than for PR.
The real question is whether Sactown has any other willing trade partners with real assets for them. From sound of it, Karl would love to ship Boogie straight to Denver for 3 of his favorite players. If Denver were to add the #7 that might actually match Aaron’s Laker deal of the #2 and Clarkson. Is Boston interested ?
Shaun says
So they traded harden for ….. no one ….or steven adams ……i give that a comic book guy … worst trade ever
Shaun says
A Hill – Jennings trade wouldn’t be that bad
…. but guy can’t shoot though … like 40% shooter
smokedaddy says
If I’m Mitch, then I put out the offer of the #2 to Sac & then stay quiet until they coming crawling back with something within reason. We’re in the driver’s seat here. If they can swing a deal they like elsewhere, then go right ahead. Don’t start negotiating with ourselves or reporters or do anything else than what would be a clear upgrade over what we’ll have after tonight.
fern says
Seeing the old Jim Buss is a fill in the blanks, Mitch has said it specially the last couple of days that whoever we are going to draft is his decision. These decisions do we trade Draft or whoever we end up doing looks like they are going to be Mitch’s calls and it looks like Jimbo is stepping at some distance. So can we stop the same old stupid song already?
Craig W. says
If we are still talking the Cousins trade, then including Denver in the scenario would fit Sacto needs for players, not picks exclusively – also George Karl’s guys.
P. Ami says
In terms of basketball value, in a vacuum, Cousins is worth every asset on the Lakers. That is the sort of player Cousins is. For the people out there who think Cousins is a loser, I don’t really see it. Is Kobe a loser now because his last two teams failed to make the playoffs? Cousins has lacked for the right talent around him to be able to compete in the NBA. That is not on him. What is on him is his maturity, and while there have been issues, I think we need to consider that the man is 24 years old.
Last season, Cousins was on a team with a good system, a good coach and was winning games. Then he went down with a life-threatening illness and when he got back the FO had gotten rid of his coach because he refused to join the “4 on five on defense” revolution. Did Boogie flip out publicly? No. Did he undermine the team? No. He expressed some frustration and moved on. Now he is on a team in which the coach, who famously has issues with his franchise players, has said he wants Cousins gone. I still haven’t seen a response from Cousins that seems problematic. Remember Magic was tagged as a problem player because he got rid of a coach he won a championship with. I believe he was 21 years old at the time.
Again, Boogie is 24 years old. He has had some maturity issues but he has become the most dominant offensive big man in the game AND his defense has become a plus, where once he was a negative. Big men take time and don’t really peak until their late twenties. We may have 4-5 years of Boogie on the upswing and a few peak years. Speaking of maturity and peaks… LeBron was 26 when he made the decision to broadcast The Decision. Boogie is not the best player on the planet but if LeBron can make the mistake of acting in such a cruel and classless manner as he did with The Decision, and recover to win a few championships and contend for a few more, I think Boogie also has room to learn from his mistakes. The man can ball.
All that said, I don’t think the Lakers are in a position to give up everything to get Boogie. I am intrigued by Randle and want to see what the FO sees in him. If Randle has the skills to play the 3 in the style of a Paul Pierce, I think he and Boogie could work together. I don’t see LMA working well under those conditions but I’m not an X&O guy. I’d love to extract the #6 but I don’t think the team needs to do that to make the trade successful.
fern says
@Shaun I believe the Thunder got it right in trading Harden, it was either him or Ibaka and Ibaka has turned out to be a pretty good rim protector and can score and even hit the occasional 3. They got right that one.They need Ibaka more than they would need Harden.
Nick says
Any one else getting the feeling that the hype around “now leaning towards Russell” is just a ploy to get the Sixers to move up to the #2 spot and give us #3 and assets instead?
I just don’t see how the Lakers are leaning towards Okafor all the way up until now, then the whole FO gets cold feet and decides they want Russell. I’m not buying it.
My gut tells me though Cousins is going to be a Laker by the end of they day, just hope we don’t overpay (I’m w/ you Smokedaddy).
Calvin says
@fern – I agree that OKC needed Serge more than Harden. Harden is a quarterback – he needs the ball in his hands to create plays. But so does Westbrook and to some extent – KD. If you play 3 of them together, someone is getting under-utilized. I doubt Harden or Westbrook will be putting up the superstar numbers if they’re playing together. Of course, OKC could have used Harden with all their injuries this past season.
rr says
The Lakers can’t trade the pick until they use it.
Oldtimer says
Error on my above post, I meant Hezonja not Winslow for Sacto 6th pick.
Well, Vivek, the owner is now choosing who to fire – Karl or trade Boogie. He could not stop the rumor. On the other hand, Mitch is spinning heads of all rumor mongers with various options but no beef like Randle is untouchable and became a better player after injury. Mitch is wavering the Lakers flag to Russell back to Okafor while orchestrating possible trade of #2. Which one will you finally pitch, Mitch?
Davis opts out which is understandable. Silent on Hill while Lin, Boozer and Johnson are already history. Swaggy and Kelly are still Lakers so far. I’m happy Lakers are again rising from its ashes of shame and scandal of the past. Whatever the decision of Mitch this afternoon, we will see the dawn of the new Lakers.
In Mitch, we trust.
P. Ami says
@fern
It was actually Harden or Perkins. Had they amnestied Perkins they would have had the money to pay Harden his max deal. It was a huge blunder. It was shocking at the time, and indefensible today.
Aaron says
“Lakers unwilling to part with Julius Randle in Cousins trade talks. He’s lost 20 pounds and his outside shot has improved. A lot. http://flip.it/0fB8G“
Todd says
Listening to 710 ESPN — why are these folks approaching this off season as a win now proposition. They want to trade young assets for Cousins and sign Aldridge and Wade. I can’t believe how short sighted they are. Is this based on leaks from the FO? I hope not.
fern says
I don’t follow the thunder closely for obvious reasons but I thought they traded Harden and gave Ibaka his deal, but I remember scratching my head about they not getting rid of Perkins, I thing you are right.
rr says
P Ami is correct. OKC refused to Amnesty Perkins and pay the luxury tax and that decision, along with injuries, has derailed the franchise. It is very, very hard to win an NBA trade when you give up an All-Star, and OKC did poorly in the deal even by that yard stick.
Snoopy2006 says
My choice is Russell over Okafor.
It’s close, don’t get me wrong. Russell just seems too crafty with the ball to bust (like a guy like Evan Turner).
Defensive liabilities at a perimeter position can be compensated for with an effective system and strong defensive big man as the second line of defense.
Serious defensive liabilities at the center position are much more difficult to compensate for in any defensive scheme, in both PnR and interior defense.
While I think both will be All-Stars, it’s easier for me to see a championship team built around Russell than around Okafor.
Oldtimer says
rr.
It was reported OKC is about to waive Luke Ridnour, does not prefer to play with ex Sonics team. The fellow has still upsides as perimeter shooter but nobody wants his contract as an old PG.
fern says
I still think that if the Lakers get Cousins is going to take the #2 and 27th pick for Cousins and #6, im open to all scenarios but trading Clarkson away, like I said those 2 picks,Hill expiring contract and if need to Randle sounds like a good deal for everyone involved. Im opposed to gutting our youth to get Cousins. I think Lamarcus is viable because he is in his prime, we can pay him keep the #2pick and we don’t lose anyone. He is in the decline?gimme a freaking break, if 23ppg and 10rpg at 29y/o is declining I don’t know what the hell people here want.
Craig W. says
I’m with Fern,
Harden does not fit with both Russ and Kevin. Ibaka was their choice – correctly. The Perkins situation does not fit into the equation – they felt they needed a bruising center. You can’t simply take numbers and determine the best combination. That is my problem with most people’s statistical analysis – they can’t look beyond the numbers. Being a good GM means understanding fit and how to compliment talent – that was the beauty of Golden State. Finally, there is luck, and injury can derail any plan, for any GM.
Craig W. says
Fern,
People always want want what they do not have – human condition. That is part of the Kobe situation.
14.1 says
If there is any truth at all in these rumored Cousins trade, I would hope that the FO doesn’t mortgage the whole team for him. Maybe the #2 & #27, Young and maybe Clarkson OR Randle, but not both. Ideally we keep both Randle and Clarkson, but I don’t see that happening if there really is a deal in place. One of them would most likely be included in the deal. I would definitely want to #6 & Cousins. I like Justice Winslow a lot and wouldn’t mind seeing him in a blue and gold.
Ideally I would like them to take a chance on our young core and try to sign some good free agents to add and build from there, hoping to entice some future HOF (cough AD cough) to join in the upcoming years. I rather they build a contender from the ground up than to add a couple of high cost free agents now that gets the team into the 7/8th playoff spot for the next 5 yrs and then have to rebuild due to limited financial flexibility because of bloated contracts.
R says
Craig W. June 25, 2015 at 12:56 pm
People always want want what they do not have – human condition. That is part of the Kobe situation.
——-
… meaning?
Craig W. says
Meaning we are never satisfied and always think the grass is greener next door.
Now that the Sacto owner has apparently said, ” If I must decide between Cousins and Karl, I choose Cousins.” I think this ends the trade speculation and begins the Karl watch.
Craig W. says
Now that LA has told Portland he is leaving – and the Lakers are no worse than 2nd in line – I think the likelyhood we draft Russell just took a giant step up. Certainly this might put pressure on the 76ers to deal with the Lakers if they really want Russell – again, maybe we can get our 2016 draft pick back, if we are willing to settle for Oakfor.
R says
Believe me, I get the grass is greener part – just wondering, though, how this pertains to Kobe?
Does it relate to Kobe himself, those who expect him to still contribute, or those who can’t wait till he’s gone?
——–
by the way, what’s the point in watching “game of thrones”? The NBA has it beat by a mile.
P. Ami says
Craig,
Harden fit well enough with Russ and Durant to get them past an excellent Spurs team and into the finals. Plus, with the way the league has been going, Ibaka, KD, Russ and Harden would work with a loud speaker trying to scare the opponents with thunderclaps as the 5th player. It is clear that OKC decided to go with Perkins instead of an All-Star who has evolved into an MVP candidate because they thought Perkins brought them a tough presence down low. That is normally classified as an error in judgement.
Oldtimer says
After 20 years of watching Kobe, I am thankful for his services to the Lakers whatever deficiencies he had from other fans point of view. His Laker career yield 5 rings and 7 finals and multiple mvp in all star game. His payment for the last two seasons is a bonus or so called “golden parachute” for people who retired with company with excellent standing. Moneywise, it may have occupied a huge chunk in cap space but it is a deferred payment for his injuries, dedication to the purple and gold.
George Best says
Russell YES!!
DieTryin says
Although I was torn between Okafor and Russell I ultimately landed on the square for Russell.
Highest ceiling w/ true star potential. Not as safe a pick as Okafor but no chance of Hackafor.
Now let’s see what happens with the the 27th & 34th
Way to go Mitch!