Mar 21, 2014; San Antonio, TX, USA; Louisiana Lafayette Ragin Cajuns guard Elfrid Payton (2) drives against Creighton Bluejays guard Grant Gibbs (10) in the first half of a men
Rumor: Louisiana-Lafayette point guard Elfrid Payton could go as high as No. 7 to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Over the past week, it has been reported that Payton’s stock is rising from potentially being selected from 14-20 to going in the top-10, with the Lakers and Sacramento Kings being heavily rumored. The Kings are looking to win immediately, so it seems less likely they will make their pick at No. 8 and, instead, trade it away for a proven veteran. That leaves the Lakers there as an option, as they plan on working him out for a second time, according to Marc J. Spears.
With only four players on the 2014-15 roster at the moment, they could pick a player at any position. Kendall Marshall is probably not the answer as the starting point guard, with his play being more suited in a backup role. If the Lakers selected Payton, he could start right away. However, this could easily be a smokescreen. They could be expressing interest in the headlines in Payton and working him out due to the Kings’ interest if they keep their pick, along with teams who need or want a PG like the Hornets and Magic picking at nine and twelve, respectively.
With so many possible players for the Lakers to pick with their many needs, it is hard to believe that Elfrid Payton is “the guy” at number seven at the moment. He will more likely be selected between nine and fourteen.
Buy or Sell? – Sell