Key Takeaways:
– The Los Angeles Lakers are ready to make a trade offer for Cleveland Cavaliers’ Donovan Mitchell.
– The proposed exchange might include D’Angelo Russell or a combination of Austin Reaves and Jalen Hood-Schifino, Rui Hachimura, and future first-round draft picks.
– Donovan Mitchell denies rumors of discontent with Cavaliers.
– Should Mitchell stay with Cavaliers, Lakers could potentially target Atlanta Hawks’ Trae Young.
The LA Lakers Poised to make a Trade Offer for Mitchell
The LA Lakers have lined up an enticing offer to lure Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell to the West Coast, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst. Reportedly, the trade package could include high-performing Lakers players alongside some future first-round draft picks.
Speculations brew around the Lakers’ Trade Proposal
Stephen Noh of Sporting News analyzed the potential deal, forecasting that the Lakers might receive Donovan Mitchell while the Cavaliers could get D’Angelo Russell(or Austin Reaves and Jalen Hood-Schifino), Rui Hachimura, first-round picks in 2024, 2029, and 2031. This substantial package indicates the Lakers’ keenness to secure a third star as part of their roster.
In the event of D’Angelo Russell opting out next season, Lakers could potentially include Austin Reaves and Jalen Hood Schifino to match the outgoing salary for Mitchell. The trio of Russell, Reaves, and Hachimura have been crucial during the Lakers’ playoff clashes against the Denver Nuggets. Noh suggests that this is the best deal Lakers can put forth, given other potential suitors like the New York Knicks have more draft picks to offer.
Mitchell’s Take on Current Rumors
In response to the swirling trade news, Mitchell took to social media to quash the rumors of any disharmony in Cleveland. He reaffirmed his happiness at Cavaliers when contacted by NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski from ESPN. Despite heading for an unavoidable decision about his future this offseason, Mitchell emphasized his determination and denied leaving the season on a negative note.
The Lakers’ Potential Pivot: Trae Young
If Mitchell decides to stay with the Cavaliers, the Lakers may shift their focus to Trae Young, the Atlanta Hawks’ three-time All-Star. ESPN’s Dave McMenamin revealed in January that the Lakers identified Mitchell and Young as their top targets for the offseason.
The Hawks, having won the lottery, might consider breaking the Young-Dejounte Murray backcourt. They could opt for a rebuild with their No. 1 pick Jalen Johnson and either Young or Murray as per their trade decisions. Additionally, Young could prove to be a more feasible option for Lakers if both Young and Mitchell are available.
Despite the unofficial poll of NBA Draft Combine executives leaning towards former Laker and New Orleans Pelicans star Brandon Ingram’s wider appeal, experts believe the Lakers have a more probable shot at landing Young than Mitchell. Consequently, Young and Mitchell’s respective futures remain an intriguing watch for NBA enthusiasts.