Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal 

The Lakers are not in the same position the Spurs were in when they made that fateful decision. 

As outlined, they don’t own their upcoming first-round pick. If belongs to the New Orleans Pelicans. The Lakers need to ensure they give them the worst pick they can. 

Perhaps that’s why they’re apprehensive to move Russell Westbrook. After all, they’d have to move future first-round picks in order to do so. The Lakers don’t want to be in a situation where they’re handing the Indiana Pacers or Charlotte Hornets the Victor Wembanyama of 2027. 

With that in mind, they might as well land players who complement Westbrook. This deal has them acquiring two.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers & Toronto Raptors Updates

With Anunoby and Trent Jr. in the fold, the Lakers will have Westbrook (and LeBron James) surrounded with the types of 3-and-D wings who compliment their playmaking. 

They even get an extra first-round pick in the process. Should the Raptors part with it to land Davis?