Los Angeles Lakers Receive: F Julius Randle, G Derrick Rose

New York Knicks Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2029 First-Round Pick (Swap – LAL) 

Of course, a team’s decisions aren’t strictly informed by money. 

Moreover, money isn’t the only capital that teams consider. In today’s NBA, draft capital seems to be more important than ever. 

That makes sense. The draft is the best avenue for acquiring cost-controlled talent. Meanwhile, if you don’t own your next pick, you’ve got less incentive to lose. 

That’s where the Los Angeles Lakers currently are. The New Orleans Pelicans own the right to swap their next pick.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Russell Westbrook, Los Angeles Lakers & New York Knicks Updates

At 16-21, they’re looking likely to hand the Pelicans a lottery pick at this pace. 

Does this deal help them avoid that fate?