D'Angelo Russell and Jordan Clarkson (Photo : Getty Images)
The LA Lakers are constantly in NBA trade rumors as pundits are skeptical about their young core carrying the team.
They have four young talents that they accumulated in the past three drafts which have caught the attention of both fans and rivals. These are D'Angelo Russell, Jordan Clarkson, Brandon Ingram and Julius Randle.
The problem is that many are skeptical on whether they could become real superstars in the tradition of Kobe Bryant and other stars who have carried such a storied franchise.
Despite their high draft places, Russell and Ingram are not mentioned in the same breath as tandems such as Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony which are already considered as cornerstones for the team.
The latest buzz had Jordan Clarkson being "disgruntled" as Walton relegated him to a bench role in the preseason. But Walton was quick to explain in the NBA.com that the Filipino-American "maybe our most consistent perimeter defender since the start of camp."
Walton explained that he wants to make sure the Lakers have talent at the second unit and moving Clarkson to the bench is not about him being "unworthy." He noted comparisons to two of the best bench players in recent history: Lamar Odom and Manu Ginobili.
"I don't look at it as really coming off the bench as much as the way Lamar came off our bench but he was really a starter," Walton said. "He played big minutes, played the end of ball games. Ginobili did it for years in San Antonio.
Thus, the rumors of Clarkson leaving may be unfounded but still, the rumors stand that the Lakers can get a superstar if they get to showcase their young core.
D'Angelo Russell has been involved in the rumors involving DeMarcus Cousins. With the Kings still lacking a real point guard and their known desire for "DLoading" this is a rumor with solid basis.
Russell is arguably the Lakers best player and he would be the focal point of any trade involving a superstar. Another example is a package of Russell and Brandon Ingram in exchange for Paul George of the Indiana Pacers.
Meanwhile, Clarkson is the main bait that for one of the Philadelphia 76ers' centers. In a piece from The Sixer Sense prior to the Lakers signing him. Also, Julius Randle is a target for the Miami Heat since they don't intend to play Chris Bosh anymore.
The speculation is that the Lakers will execute one or more of these trades and not really keep the core as it is. As the season plays out, the indications will become clearer.
