We told you that getting Paul George to the Lakers was going to be complicated and that the Lakers front office had now started to openly say that they did not expect to trade for him this summer. Well, that’s exactly how it’s played out with the Pacers deciding to trade George to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Paul George has been traded to OKC, per sources
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) July 1, 2017
Hearing Oladipo and Sabonis going to Indy
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) July 1, 2017
Yes, that’s the entire deal. No future draft picks, no elite young prospect. The Pacers took a return that mirrors what other teams have recently gotten for All-Star level talents and reflective of the weak leverage they were operating with.
Oladipo is a former #2 overall pick and a fine player who can still improve. Sabonis was a lottery pick in the 2016 draft, has some promise as a stretch big with skill, and is coming off his rookie season. But when you factor in Oladipo’s contract and the fact that Sabonis essentially plays the same position as the Pacers’ 1st round pick from last week’s draft (TJ Leaf), the talent exchange is put more into perspective.
This will lead Lakers fans to wonder — how is this package better than what Magic and Pelika were offering? Well, as with most trades, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. If I were Indy GM Kevin Pritchard, though, I would certainly be selling Oladipo’s status as a former #2 pick (and a former Hoosier too) and play up Sabonis’ status as a former lottery pick. And, in all honesty, even if the Lakers offered a package of Clarkson and Randle, I can jump into Pritchard’s shoes and say that Clarkson is the inferior player to Oladipo and that Randle is only a year away from entering restricted agency whereas Sabonis has three more seasons before that is true.
That may not be enough to justify this return if you’re a Lakers fan, but they’re not the ones who are trading Paul George. In other words, it is what it is.
I’d also add that it’s not far fetched to think there was some pettiness from Pritchard, but even if that was the case I couldn’t really care less. It’s his prerogative to act in whatever way he wants or sees fit. And, in all honesty, he might have done the Lakers a favor here. If there was a major concern about potential George trades, it was that he’d end up in Boston or Cleveland (or even Houston after the Chris Paul trade), be on a top tier contender that could legitimately trade blows with the Warriors and like that feeling so much he doesn’t really even entertain free agent suitors a year from now. Today, that feels less likely in OKC than those other destinations.
I’m not speaking down on OKC at all — they have a great organizational culture and the reigning MVP of the league. And that could always turn George in their direction, as could him finding a real chemistry with Westbrook next year. This is a threat and I don’t want to downplay that. However, without a current long term commitment from Westbrook in place and the prospects of other suitors lurking next year, I think George takes free agent meetings and allows himself to be wooed by those suitors.
And, if you’re the Lakers, that’s all you can really ask for if you’re not the team that traded for him. You want the chance to get George in a room with Magic, Pelinka, and Luke Walton and be recruited hard. And you want them to tell him how they’ll have room to sign another top player while still being able to play with some of their best young players. Ultimately, I think they’ll get that opportunity next summer. And then they’ll let the chips fall where they do.
R says
Really nice summary of the situation, Darius.
I think the Lakers FO played it right.
Let’s see if the gamble pays off.
Tez says
I look at it with optimism. From most reports it seems as if George’s ultimate goal is to land in LA. Now he has a year to kind of build a relationship with Westbrook and try to bring both. Still feel like a Westbrook, George, Lonzo, Ingram team is more appealing. Big market and get to play at home and try to entice Klay
Steve says
Totally agree. Of all the trade that could have happened, this was the best for the Lakers. Would have loved to have him this year for JC & Randle but not for anymore than that. But Houston and Boston and even Denver scared the heck out of me.
I can live with this. Next year (and summer league!) will still be fun watching the young guys grow. Hopefully can add a few more wins to show they’re headed in right direction.
dxmanners says
..and in 6 months he’ll be tired of playing with Russell Westbrook, just like Durant. I hope the Lakers never sign RW, please no…
LakerDan says
I am breathing a sigh of relief. We just dodged several very big bullets – namely the Cavs, Celts and Rockets. Roll out the welcome matt. PG to LA in 18 – plus 1.
Callie Willis says
The Pacers general manager was being petty as all other general managers are. No one wants to help the Lakers, but they don’t understand that the more relevant the Lakers are the more money they make.
Fern says
Well, that’s over and PG is closer to the Lakers without giving anything up. I think they are going to find another suitor for Clarkson eventually. But i wouldn’t part with Randle just yet me thinks he’s going to have a career year and with the improvement of Ingram and the addition of Ball and Lopez and hopefully some short team additions that. help the team in defense and shooting the Lakers could be very interesting. Worse case ecenario he could be traded at the trade deadline. Darius is spot on that Randle being a rfa next year probably put the kaput on the trade. But im glad…
Jim213 says
One year deals it is.
Gman says
None of that explains why Indiana didn’t take Boston’s reported earlier offer loaded with 1st round picks. “Two players” who won’t change trajectory doesn’t seem superior to one good player (a Randle or one of Boston’s kids) and a couple picks, or two good players and a pick or two from Bos or LAL. That said, very glad he didn’t go to Boston. This is one of the better non-Laker trade scenarios we could have hoped for in terms of getting him to LA. Is PG/RW enough to beat Golden State and then Cleveland? And if they are good, but not great, is that enough for him to want to stay in Oklahoma, of all places, rather than coming home to a franchise now, finally, on the right footing with, potentially, cash for him AND Westbrook next year? Wouldn’t be surprised to see that happening. LAL meanwhile can sign a mid level or low contract contributor or a vet to mentor young this year and do whatever they have to to get one or two members of the LBJ/PG/RW/Cousins class next year.
Anonymous says
They probably didn’t want him to strengthen a conference rival. Them losing their best player already affects their playoff chances, but that trade would have just basically given one of their rivals a free pass to the Eastern Conference Finals. Not to mention they’d have to play PG 4 times.
Stephen says
Two reasons I can imagine.
Snarky one is Boston leaks these supposed fabulous offers after something happens that didn’t go their way. Almost like someone is in CYA mode-see,I made a great offer,it’s not my fault they didn’t take it. We’re just supposed to ignore the “reports” from other teams at the actual time of the talks that none of the actual offers came close to what later on Boston claims they offered.
More importantly,last season Indy thought George was staying,committing to building a contender w/them. As late as the exit interview George was telling them he was willing to stay if they could build a better team.There was no incentive for Indy to take a bunch of middling picks for a top talent.
Then at almost the last minute,George tells Indy he’s gone. All the prelim work Indy did for building around George just got trashed and likely PO’d Pritchard and co. You can almost see the though balloon-Eff him,see how he can build his brand playing alongside the most selfish star in the NBA.
drrayeye says
From a Laker’s perspective, having Paul George this year was probably too soon. The deal Pritchard got from Oklahoma City is apparently not wowing anyone in Indiana:
https://www.indycornrows.com/2017/6/30/15907196/report-pacers-to-trade-paul-george-to-thunder-for-oladipo-sabonis
IMO, this is the about the best outcome for a Paul George in the Laker’s 2018 future.
Ed says
I`ve always felt that the Clippers were the biggest threat in the battle for PG but with Paul gone,not so much, even with JW.
Laker Jam says
Yep.
81 Witness says
What if Clarkson, Ball, and Ingram exceed expectations next year? Is there room for a PG13 who may only contribute another win or two? Who gets relegated to the bench?
Since the Lakers were so unwilling to part with Ball and Ingram, perhaps they really aren’t as interested in PG13 as many believe. One name to keep an eye on is Lilliard. Would love to have him slide into the 1 to take on the quick PGs and hit the open 3.
Artemis says
Most definitely. PG13 would slip right into the starting lineup and Clarkson would be an ideal 6th man. Potential 6th man of the year candidate like Eric Gordon, Lou Williams, or Jamal Crawford especially if the Lakers make the playoffs with Ball and Ingram performing well.
Lakers since 1996 says
I agree (but not including that Damian Lillard part).
I am one of — well, I don’t know — the few who hopes the Lakers stick with organic rebuild and do away with signing star free agents who will just eat up the minutes of that “standout talent” and of that “new face of the Los Angeles Lakers.” Allowing Ingram and Ball to grow only to impede their growth a year after just does not make sense to me.
On the other hand, if Paul George will sign up for the Lakers’ off-guard position, that’s hooray for me!
If the Lakers, particularly Ingram and Ball, do considerably good in the upcoming season, I’d rather that they sign just one max player (Paul George if he’s really hell-bent on signing with the Lakers). The rest of the cap space — save that for future and future and future flexibility.
Old timer says
Lakers spoke to three FA’s as reported by Ramona Shelburne – Rondo, Iggy and McLemore. I doubt if they will accept 1 year rental. Rondo is a locker room head ache. It is enough that we have Lavar Ball on the outside. Two becomes a poison. lol!
81 Witness says
Yes to Mc. He started to tear it up from 3 at the end of the season. As long as someone on the Lakers coaching staff can light a fire under him to keep him motivated, he’ll be a good signing.
Also the Kings player development has been lacking. Reke (injuries), Martin, Smith, and others have busted with their tutelage.
Roll the dice on Mc. One year prove it deal or two with team option.
Anthony says
The Lakers should have PG13 & Boogie , with lonzo , BI , Randle , that is the starting 5 lonzo pg / BI SG / PG sf / Randle pf / Boogie Center / that right there is strong as GS and that is a dynasty , with LNJ , Ennis, zubac , clarkston , that’s 9 deep championship 2019 & 2020 2021
WWL says
The Pacers decided an overpaid 1-dimensional bust and low-end younster was best for them.
Good for them.
Old Timer says
Still celebrating that Danny Ainge came out empty with PG with gile of not offering the acquired ’18 Lakers draft pick. What does that mean? He is predicting Lakers will continue to be cellar dweller and will compete with top picks next summer. That’s good motivation to the new Laker brand keep their expectation low and experience the Lakers blowhard strike this season. Second, Dubs are now maxed with Curry’s $ 201m contract then comes Durant FA, Klay T., they would not have cap space for Iggy this season, next Green and eventually Klay Who could be seeking his own identity. There are now six power house teams in the West: Dubs, Rockets, Thunder, Spurs, Twolves, Blazers. Lakers will be competing for the 7th and 8th slot against Jazz, Grizz, Suns, Kings, Nuggets, Sixers, Clippers, Pelicans tough competition indeed!
While PG will be honing his skills with Thunder, Lakers will creating chemistry with their youth and the best player continue to be disgruntled with same same Cavs. roster. On the other side of Staples locker room, no CP3, got back with Griffin maybe able to play by Dec., no more JJ, only Andre and Crawford. Can Lakers beat them 3 out of 4 games? Let’s see.
Rick in Seattle says
Wouldn’t get too excited just yet Old Timer. OKC could reopen trade discussions after free agency. Presti is smart. Buy low, sell high. Could see him getting a bidding war started between Boston & Cleveland. He certainly doesn’t need to have George influence Westbrook to come west with him next season. I see another PG trade coming later in the summer IF Boston or Cleveland are desperate for help. .
MsWay says
Thankfully the lakers FO have resisted a total blowup of the re-build and seem to be stressing a high character roster. I have read all the comments about DR and even though there were things about the kid that looked lazy and uninterested, I wrote it off to a young kid finding his way.But if a Pro doesn’t have a obsessive work ethic, that’s a red flag ,and the FO made a strong move forward.As far as free agency a great pick up would be a high character pro in the 26 to 30 year old range that can really shoot it,I feel that young players will advance further by competition from young prospects, rather than old washed up pros.Remember that its about winning this year and development.Lonzo ball is a kid also, and he is under huge pressure.We are in a youth rebuild, with the only path to getting an all star is to make one, If and until one signs on the dotted line, we have to develop our own as if no savior is guaranteed to be coming here.
Clay Bertrand says
This PG saga isn’t over by a long shot.
IF, as many are over confidently assuming PG refuses to sign a long term pact in OKC and/or continues a back channel desire to leave OKC for the Lakers next Summer, what’s to keep OKC from trading him at the deadline OR SOONER to Boston or Cleveland after all as they plow into the playoffs??
Sure there is still the risk of it being a rental. BUT there is still that danger of him liking the taste of success and deciding to sign on for longer. While I believe the Celtics are leaking 75% Truths about their offers to Indy for George, I do believe that they did, and could again, offer assets that a potentially rebuilding Sam Presti may find desirable even though Kevin Pritchard did not.
If PG is not going to stay in OKC, I could see him being moved again prior to the deadline in Feb.
My other 2 cents:
1.) NO RONDO. Cmon man???!!!! He is at worst, a guy with a Crappy and Selfishish Attitude, or at best he is a guy for which its fairly hard to acquire taste. His game is undisputedly outdated and his outside shot is abysmal. I don’t want his influence and negative vibe infecting the Laker culture at this still embryonic stage.
2.) The Free Agent pursuit this year is clearly going to be limited to one or maximum two signings unless a trade to free up the front court glut happens sooner than later (Yes, I heard this from Captain Obvious).
3.) Tarik Black could have the Lakers opt in to his deal and then he could be moved now or later. Obviously, he is part of the crowded Front Court situation. This needs to be straightened out and we will know more by July 4 on Black. It would seem that the longer he remains in limbo, the more likely it is the Lakers pick up his deal. He is an intelligent and mature player and I think that the Lakers would act to free him up sooner than later to allow him to pursue other options IF he was not in their plans to retain. Cuttin him loose when all teams have spent all their money already would be a cold move. I don’t see teams THIS year ponying up $6Million for Tarik Black anyway. As said, if retained, he could always be moved at a later date as a younger front court role player on an expiring deal.
4.) There is still plenty of work to do in shaping and balancing the roster IMO. I think some low level trade maneuvering could still be needed. The Lakers FA signing(s) will come from the Clearance Rack once the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Tier FAs have signed. As one Oakland Raiders FO official aptly put it when the Raiders were not active jumping into the Free Agency fray this off season, “WE WILL WAIT FOR THE DUST TO SETTLE, THEN START SWEEPIN'”.
Picture Magic with a DustBuster……….sucking up SWAGGY P with a One Year Fatty!!!! What’s better, a 2+1(team option) deal for a potential $18 Mil or a one year deal for $12mil to stay at home catch passes from Ball and be the #1 3pt gunner?? Same guaranteed money.
Alexander says
PG’s camp has been very deliberate in their timing and phrasing this offseason. Here’s what I expect PG to say from the get-go: “I am happy to play in OKC the final year of my contract. Next summer I will consider multiple teams, including OKC.” No one can ask for more, so PG plays out and makes the most of his guest season in the boonies, before he comes home.
Alan says
As a Laker fan, the glass is now half full. The nonsense of “is this or is that going to happen”, is largely behind us and I anticipate Paul George will sign with the Lakers in 2018.
With the draft now over, are there enough assets on the team to think there might be hope of trading Deng’s contract over the next year to further improve cap space? No need to hold players in reserve for a trade. We’ll see.
Hopefully the team will stay away from free agency and play the guys currently on the team.
Clay Bertrand says
OK. Tarik is waived. Clearly the FO wanted to let him go out on the market and get a fair deal to land on his feet.
Also indicates the Lakers are opening up space for immediate albeit short term use. He was probably a long shot to make this roster as presently constituted anyway. Tarik was a good guy. I liked him. Hope he does well except against us.
drrayeye says
My first disagreement with Magic/Pelinka.
I’m probably wrong, but I believe that the waiving of Tarik Black was a mistake. He is the kind of high character, team oriented player that all the younger players should be emulating–and the older players appreciating.
Who knows? Maybe Tarik will reappear still this year . . . .
George Best says
So what’s the contingency plan if George does not want to come to the Lakers next summer?
I doubt Ainge offered the Lakers pick next year because he expects it to be top 3 in a deep draft. Indiana should have just held on to him. He would be worth more come the trade deadline.
Old Timer says
I agree with you guys on Tarik’s case, it was a year extension for 6.6m. The only reason why they could not extend that contract because there is no more room in the roster and eyeing a complete youth overhaul. Sixes are more or less in the same boat as the Lakers just sign JJ a huge contact for a year only. I think they are also entertaining back player other than Ennis too. That’s the way they look at it, full confidence with new recruits and Summer League applicants can get better players than these two.
On peddling PG in Feb, hard to trade a guy for few months stay only even if he is being traded to a contender. He is not just LouWill as role player but a starter who would command a price in any trade in exchange. On the other picture, Sam Presti knows if he’ll not re-seed excitable players in OKC, he could lose RW and eventually OKC franchise. They lost Harden, Ibaka, Durant, their fans are restless and could abandon attendance if there is no improvement in the roster.
A determined player who is antsy to come home has his own personal objectives in life maybe wants to raise his family here. therefore no money nor fame elsewhere can stop that motivation because he knows that if he is the lone star player in Los Angeles, he can duplicate any success achieve in Boston, Cleveland or anywhere else. Another point, since he grew up as a Los Angelino, perhaps he dreams his jersey hanging in those rafters, a monument maybe in Palmdale for posterity reasons making that dream of young Paul many years ago come true. Psychologists call this desire man’s ego to achieve the highest place in the hierarchy of needs. Just my two cents.
Rick in Seattle says
By the way, it appears that Phoenix has chosen to go with a young rebuild. There are reports that their veterans are available for trade and they are willing to take other teams castoffs in order to gather additional draft picks. I only mention this because there is a possibility it could eventually pertain to Luol Deng. Right now is probably not the time but either at the February trade deadline or more likely next summer (when Deng has only two years remaining, something could materialize. Right now, Deng/s salary is needed to meet the team minimum.