09-15-2022, 02:45 PM
(09-15-2022, 09:33 AM)mvossman Wrote: Unfortunately, this is the most likely scenario. If you add all three guys to Lakers they suddenly become very dangerous for a season. Ainge is going to want both firsts which could be crazy valuable after the Lakers break apart.
Yes I think that's the discussion (Conley-Clarkson-Bogey for Westbrook-2 unprotected 1sts).
Lakers are weighing whether it's worth 2 unprotected 1sts (ie, their future) to become "competitive for a title this season." Along with the difference it would make this season, they would also get the opportunity to re-sign Clarkson and Bogey going forward, and/or use them as trade fodder at some point, thereby extending their time to be competitive.
I think Lakers need to pull the trigger and give up the picks. Lebron isn't getting any younger. But it's not an easy call. Meanwhile, the clock is ticking down - the highest value is to get those players into the mix pronto, with a full camp and also some of the pre-camp work.
It's possible they have hopes to do with RW what Mavs seem to be doing with THJ/Bertans -- ie, see if they can elevate their trade value by what is shown during the season. But I don't have any expectation that the trade market for him will increase, and there's always the risk UT trades elsewhere and then the Lakers get stuck holding the Old Maid when the game ends.