The ongoing debate about the Los Angeles Lakers’ ability to contend for an NBA championship with their existing lineup or minor trades continues. However, there are indications that the team’s management, including VP of basketball operations Rob Pelinka, might be considering a more dramatic strategy.
According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the Lakers are internally exploring trading three draft picks with current roster players to secure a top-tier player. Two notable names have emerged in these discussions: Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks and Donovan Mitchell of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
“The Lakers have discussed internally the possibility of packaging three picks, along with players they already have on their books, to pursue a bona fide star, such as Donovan Mitchell of the Cleveland Cavaliers or Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks, team sources told ESPN,” McMenamin wrote.
While the Lakers have been connected to various players recently, including Young’s teammate Dejounte Murray, acquiring either Young or Mitchell would represent a significant move.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Los Angeles Lakers, Dejounte Murray, Trae Young, Donovan Mitchell Updates
Such an acquisition would suggest that Pelinka and his team are open to revisiting the strategy of building a team around three superstars, potentially pairing the new addition with existing stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
This approach recalls the Lakers’ 2021 acquisition of Russell Westbrook, which differed in outcome and context, particularly considering the younger ages of Mitchell and Young compared to Westbrook.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Los Angeles Lakers, Dejounte Murray, Trae Young, Donovan Mitchell Updates
However, the prospect of adding a player of Young or Mitchell’s caliber to the Lakers’ roster in Los Angeles would undoubtedly create a buzz and be a major draw for fans, even though it may seem unlikely.
