Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Mike Conley, F Bojan Bogdanovic, G Patrick Beverley

Utah Jazz Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2026 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2027 First-Round Pick (Swap – LAL), 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)

How highly should the Los Angeles Lakers value first-round picks?

Realistically, not as high as other teams do. Lakers exceptionalism has been a reality of the NBA for decades. In 2022, it still exists.

Remember, the Lakers were in shambles before LeBron James joined the club. They were struggling to transition out of the Kobe Bryant era, and perenially ranked among the league’s worst teams.

James decided to join the squad anyway. There’s an undeniable appeal in the Lakers’ brand. Their color scheme is iconic. Their history is the stuff of legend. Generally speaking, a star will join the Lakers eventually for the simple fact that they’re the Lakers.

LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Los Angeles Lakers’ Stance On Trading Horton-Tucker For Utah Jazz Vets

In other words, building through the draft is not a priority for this team as it is for others. With that said, the Lakers may prefer to hunt for a bigger star. In that event, this next three-team deal ought to suit them.