Paul George (Photo : Getty Images)
There are several deals the Los Angeles Lakers could explore for their No. 2 pick and core of young talents, but Indiana Pacers star Paul George could be the only player worth trading for.
The Lakers have yet to confirm whether they are truly willing to part ways with their No. 2 pick in the 2016 NBA draft, but plenty of speculations have surfaced about the 16-time world champs trading their top pick for a veteran star who could instantly turn the franchise into contenders.
While there would probably be many interesting trades for the Lakers' 2016 first round pick and some of their young talents, Forbes' Brian Mazique believes only a deal for George equal's the value for LA's No. 2 pick.
"The Indiana Pacers would be insane to trade Paul George, but if they do, he's the only superstar the Los Angeles Lakers should target if they're willing to deal their No. 2 pick in the 2016 NBA draft," Mazique wrote.
According to Mazique, a proposed deal could involve the No. 2 pick, D'Angelo Russell, Julius Randle and Lou Williams for George and the Pacers' 20th selection.
George, a California native who also played college basketball in Fresno State University, would almost immediately put the Lakers back into title contention, considering the team gets to sign key free agents to surround the All-Star forward. With George, the Lakers get to fill the void at the small forward position and get a superstar who could replace Laker legend Kobe Bryant.
Moreover, despite having a cash-load of money to pursue top players in free agency, the Lakers' best chance to land a marquee star is via trade.
Tinsel town has not been an attractive destination for free agents in the past years, with top players likely looking to join teams that have better chances at winning a championship. By trading for George, the Lakers could become a likable landing spot for the likes of Kevin Durant, Al Horford and Hassan Whiteside, all of whom could suddenly make the Purple and Gold a formidable team.
On the other hand, there are rumors the Pacers are looking to rebuild following the departure of Frank Vogel despite the team's impressive run in the postseason. The No. 2 pick, which could either be Ben Simmons or Brandon Ingram, as well as Russell and Randle, should suffice as key pieces if Indiana wants to restart their roster.
Bill Simmons has claimed the Lakers plan to make a "big run" at George, but there is a growing sense LA will have a very slim chance of acquiring him from the Pacers, with the 26-year-old being the main piece in the team's success in the past years. However, a package of young talents would probably be enough to entice the Pacers to let George come home to LA.
