13. Los Angeles Lakers (rights traded to Indiana Pacers) – Anthony Black, G, Arkansas
It will be interesting to see how this season ends for the Los Angeles Lakers. There is still much that needs to be settled when it comes to that. However, there’s no question that there are a few additions that this team still needs to make if they truly want to compete for a title next season in the Western Conference. And it will start with the team making a splash at the NBA Draft. Not with a selection.
Instead, the Lakers will pick for the Indiana Pacers. The Lakers will trade the rights of the 13th overall pick to the Pacers in exchange for Buddy Hield. Los Angeles has been targeting Hield for what seems like two offseasons. They will finally land him. In an attempt to add another game-changing piece, the Lakers get another capable scorer in the backcourt.
I’m not sure how much closer this move gets the Lakers to contention status but there’s no question that this is a move that will improve their chances. And, really, that’s all the Lakers could ask for heading into the offseason.
Anthony Black will give the Pacers another option in the backcourt and another player that they can develop next to its young core.