Jimmy Butler and DeMarcus Cousins (Photo : Getty Images)
Even after hiring their new Head Coach Luke Walton, the rumors and speculation about the Lakers is far from over.
The rumor started that the Lakers would trade their draft pick even if it's no.1 (thanks to this video tweet from Colin Cowherd). "I've now been told by two separate sources, even if the Lakers get the No. 1 pick they're trading it," "They don't want to rebuild anymore. They want to get a star NBA player. They will call teams if they get the No. 1 pick and shop it around the league. "
The short answer on who they will trade the pick for would be the stars that are already on the rumor mill. It also helps that they also fill in their positions of need. In Lake Show Life, they rounded out the usual prospects-three big stars that are most likely to be traded. Which one could fall to the Lakers?
DeMarcus Cousins has already lost his "untouchable" status and on one Sacramento Bee report, it was alleged that GM Vlade Divac is already tired of him. However, the owner still sees him as their one and only asset that not only wins them games occasionally but also puts people in the stands.
In that context, even if the GM would want to trade the star player, the owner would demand someone who could deliver what Cousins brings to the table. A no.1 pick which would probably be Ben Simmons is not enough. If the Sacramento Kings want a big draw, it would be D'Angelo Russell and possibly Julius Randle. The Lakers would probably balk at this demand.
Paul George was a rumor started by Bill Simmons as discussed in a previous report. Larry Bird has no reason to trade George, he would only cash in on a "ridiculous offer" and that would be the top 3 pick and D'Angelo Russell at least. Even if it's no.1, they would still ask for D'Angelo. But George is one of the league's best two-way players and none of the baggage that DeMarcus Cousins had. The Lakers could go all in for him, but Larry Bird would still hesitate.
Perhaps the most attainable of these three players, Jimmy Butler is a realistic prospect. The Chicago Bulls are willing to part with him and they would really want to get their hands on a draft pick. Even if the pick is not no.1, if it's top 3, the Bulls would take it. If the Lakers are hesitant on trading D'Angelo Russell for him a sign and trade for Jordan Clarkson and Lou Williams could be sufficient.
The only caveat for Butler is the possible "Godfather" offer that the Boston Celtics could pull. The Celts also have a chance at a top three pick, so it could depend on who has the higher pick.
