Paul George (Photo : Getty Images)
While the LA Lakers now have a full roster going to training camp, the possibility of a future trade still looms on the horizon.
Recent reports continue to swirl linking the Lakers with superstar names as they failed to obtain one in free agency. Both Lakers fans and critics don't believe that the roster at the start of the season will be the same one at the end.
The young core of the Lakers, consisting of D'Angelo Russell, Julius Randle, Jordan Clarkson and Brandon Ingram have caught the eye of their rival teams and if the Lakers show their best side, trading a combination of these players could fetch a superstar in return.
According to a report from Metro, the Lakers are "willing to pay" for the services of Paul George. The "pay" does not refer to money though, but assets in exchange for the former Most Improved Player awardee.
"The latest round of gossip involves Pacers Paul George, a budding superstar who is coming off a 23.1 points per game season (with seven rebounds, 4.1 assists per game and 1.9 steals per game to boot)," Evan Macy of Metro wrote.
"As for youth, a team that can offer that is the Lakers - for whom George would reportedly love to play as he grew up idolizing Kobe Bryant. Several outlets have reported since May that the Lakers would be willing to offer Brandon Ingram or DeAngelo Russell for George, a superstar who could jumpstart L.A. back to relevancy," Macy concluded.
This was also tweeted by sportswriter Bill Simmons before the 2016 NBA Draft. Back then, it was not Ingram yet but the no.2 overall pick, although it was a safe bet that it would be the Duke standout.
Also hearing that the Lakers want to make a BIG run at Paul George with their top-3 pick plus other stuff. (Not that they'd get him...)
— Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) May 4, 2016
Macy also mentioned that the Boston Celtics, who are also chasing a superstar are interested in pursuing George. The main assets that the Celtics can offer are the Brooklyn Nets picks, specifically the right to swap 2017 first round picks with the NY based team that is projected to finish in the bottom five of the league.
The Indiana Pacers surprisingly let go of head coach Frank Vogel with whom George has a close relationship with. The team wanted to try a different offensive approach. If they stumble at the gate and George isn't happy, many believe that a trade could happen.
