Lakers News: LA Open to Packaging 2023 1st Rounder with Role Players in Big Trade

LA has some options!

It's no secret that the Lakers are looking into different options to upgrade their roster this summer. They are looking for potential upgrades, notably at the point guard position, and have a few ways to go about everything. Los Angeles has the 17th overall pick in next week's upcoming NBA draft to potentially use in a trade (and the 47th pick in the second round) and have the ability to exercise both center Mo Bamba and guard Malik Beasley's contract for salary-matching purposes in trades.

Lakers insider Jovan Buha of The Athletic recently noted that the team is open to possibly moving their first round draft pick and one of the two aforementioned players in a deal that would net them a starting level player. Buha explains below:

"There’s also the growing possibility that they can make a move at the 2023 draft, flipping their pick (No. 17), along with Bamba and/or Beasley for a starting-level upgrade," Buha writes.

If the Lakers are indeed going to trade their draft pick then this is the correct move. In a loaded draft class, retaining the pick could be beneficial but the team also knows that there is a small window to win with LeBron James and Anthony Davis still on the roster. They need to acquire a player that can step in from day one and be an instant impact for this roster.

Buha doesn't mention any names but team president Rob Pelinka has done a good job at keeping things under wraps until it's time to be announced. 

If this is the route that the team is choosing to go, they would also be doing themselves a favor and getting something in return for either Bamba or Beasley. Beasley could have a role on this team next season but he is scheduled to make $16 million, a little more than the team is interested in paying him. Bamba is scheduled to make $10 if the team decides to fully guarantee his salary for next season.

Both could be salary dumps on expiring deals and would be enticing for opposing teams. The Lakers understand that this summer is critical so no moves will be made unless they truly believe that it will be an upgrade. 

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