☆Official 2016 Lakers Draft Thread | Ben Simmons, Brandon Ingram train

[kkinchen]

All the mock drafts have us taking Brandon Ingram with the number 2 pick. I like that pick alot, especially if we get Durant also. I wouldn't mind if we took a gamble on Thon Maker either with our top pick. For those of you who dont konw about Maker, check this out.....


https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=UC-Icj3FI18

Pairing him with Randle could make for a hellacious frontcourt for the rest of the league.

[dd24]

No way Thon Maker is even close to a lottery pick. That would be crazy. We just have to hope they land in the top two. That third pick makes things messy. It would be really hard to get a guy there that would fit with their young core, at least if they are drafting based on the best available player. There's not a lot of C's in this draft that look like they could be a difference maker. The Lakers have two PF's so Bender doesn't make sense. If they resign Clarkson and/or go after Derozen it doesn't make sense to go after Kris Dunn. But those top two picks would really help shape the roster and give this team a positive direction.

[$LakerGold]

Anyone want to live tweet during the draft? This is huge, bros.

[$LakerGold]

ISH live posting, I mean. Stupid me.

[dd24]

I'm sure by now everyone has seen the reports of the Lakers wanting to trade their top pick for Paul George. This would obviously include other assets as well like Randle and/or Russell. I'm not sure I like the idea of gutting the team to get Paul George. He's a really good player but look at what happened to the Knicks when they traded for Carmelo. They're very similar situations. It will take years to get enough around him to win anyhow. So I think the best thing for this team to do would be to draft Ingram or Simmons if they land one of those top two picks. If they get the 3rd then I would explore trades possibly.

[tamaraw08]

I'm sure by now everyone has seen the reports of the Lakers wanting to trade their top pick for Paul George. This would obviously include other assets as well like Randle and/or Russell. I'm not sure I like the idea of gutting the team to get Paul George. He's a really good player but look at what happened to the Knicks when they traded for Carmelo. They're very similar situations. It will take years to get enough around him to win anyhow. So I think the best thing for this team to do would be to draft Ingram or Simmons if they land one of those top two picks. If they get the 3rd then I would explore trades possibly.

Could this be a Jim Buss' personal agenda of retaining his position?:pimp:
Getting a legit allstar now and spending all the available cap money in the summer would enhance their chances of getting into the playoffs. With George on board, it would be relatively easier to convince guys like Horford to join the team as compared to playing with very young players who have about 1-2 years to fully mature and see their peak.
If Jim keeps the pick, that would leave them with 4 raw players esp the new rookie who needs atleast 1-2 years to show his real worth= he needs to go.
But in the bigger picture, you potentially will have 4 very good players with rookie/cheap contracts in the next 3-5 years, you then spend that money to add 2-3 very good free agents during that time period.

[dd24]

For sure, short term they would be better. Long term definitely not. Unless a guy like KD wanted to play with George and then you try to put some pieces around them. I'm not sure George and Horford would be much more than an 8 seed in the West.

[$LakerGold]

This might be the Lakers just looking for more options, or Jim Buss is activating "moron mode" thinking getting 1 rising franchise player will save his own ass. Mitch has stated (paraphrasing) in his exit interview that you do not get players via trade who are in their mid-late 20's to be your franchise player given the window of opportunity left based on the situation they are in (the Lakers). As what dd24 said, it will take years before they'll see a bit of success.

Let's see: Paul George, 26 years old, then it'd take probably take 2-4 years to get their s* together. 28/30-33 yrs. old before he dramatically declines?

Different story as for getting KD though since they won't have to give up assets, unless it's an SnT, which won't likely to happen. Though, KD + PG might work since both can play without the ball in their hands 24/7 (I notice that KD has been more ball dominant ever than before when SB were coaching them, he used to come off screens way more often than he does now). Very small window of opportunity of success, I feel like.

So, all 3 young core will have bird rights by then, & let's say they do in-fact sign KD, PG might to open to taking a paycut when his contract ends, maybe? LMAO what a stretch.

I still would like to see the Lakers in the draft this year.

p.s. sorry about Detroit. I really saw them winning. Almost had G1 & G2.

[dd24]

I knew Detroit would lose that series. I was upset they made the playoffs in the first place. Being the 8 seed is about the worst situation a team can be in. Not bad enough to get a lottery pick and not good enough to be considered anywhere near a contender. At least with this years draft it's so weak there isn't much difference between having the 10th pick or the 20th.

[bladefd]

I would NOT trade top 2 pick for PG. 3rd pick? Sure but Indy wouldn't want that :p

It is best to build through draft if you get a top 2 pick because you are setting yourself up for the next decade and half. In a perfect world, we get a top 2 pick and can somehow land Hortford.. that would still leave lots of cap space to build up the bench. I wouldn't mind sign and trading Clarkson/Lou/future pick for Derozen if possible.

Hortford
Randle
Simmons or Ingram
Derozen
Russell

How does that look? We would still have money for couple backups for bench..

[dd24]

Why sign and trade for Derozen? There's no reason to give all that up for him. He's not restricted. He could go where ever he wants. Give them a 2nd rounder if they don't want him to leave for nothing. Although, with as bad as he's been this series I'm not sure it's worth going after him anymore.

[tamaraw08]

This might be the Lakers just looking for more options, or Jim Buss is activating "moron mode" thinking getting 1 rising franchise player will save his own ass. Mitch has stated (paraphrasing) in his exit interview that you do not get players via trade who are in their mid-late 20's to be your franchise player given the window of opportunity left based on the situation they are in (the Lakers). As what dd24 said, it will take years before they'll see a bit of success.

Let's see: Paul George, 26 years old, then it'd take probably take 2-4 years to get their s* together. 28/30-33 yrs. old before he dramatically declines?

Different story as for getting KD though since they won't have to give up assets, unless it's an SnT, which won't likely to happen. Though, KD + PG might work since both can play without the ball in their hands 24/7 (I notice that KD has been more ball dominant ever than before when SB were coaching them, he used to come off screens way more often than he does now). Very small window of opportunity of success, I feel like.

So, all 3 young core will have bird rights by then, & let's say they do in-fact sign KD, PG might to open to taking a paycut when his contract ends, maybe? LMAO what a stretch.

I still would like to see the Lakers in the draft this year.

p.s. sorry about Detroit. I really saw them winning. Almost had G1 & G2.

Im not sure leaving Westbrook to join George would be a much better situation for KD either. :confusedshrug:
Yes Westbrook have been a bit crazy but you also factor in the supporting cast. Ibaka, Adams, Kantner is better than what the Lakers have.
As a Laker fan ofcourse I would love him to come here but it just seems to me, going home and playing in the East would be an easier route to Conference finals, joining Wall (top 5 PG), Porter, Beal, Gortat rather than what is left for the Lakers if they have to trade for George.

[dd24]

I would say it's highly doubtful he goes to Washington. I think the most likely scenario is he resigns with OKC.

[tamaraw08]

I would say it's highly doubtful he goes to Washington. I think the most likely scenario is he resigns with OKC.

I think a lot will all depend on the next 3 games or so. If they lose to the Spurs, what reason is there to stay put? 4 years of trying, a new coach, a more productive center as compared to Perkins...etc. Maybe having Westbrook, a shoot first PG along side him will never work.
Wall is I think top 3 in assists if Im not mistaken, no Warriors, no Spurs but just the Cavs to contend with. I love Miami but I think Wade is on his last legs.

[dd24]

I agree the East is the easiest path. Most athletes actually don't like playing in their hometown though.

[$LakerGold]

I'm content w/ the 2nd pick. Now let's hope Philly will make the stupidest decision of their life. But I'm content with either one of them.

[$LakerGold]

Full story here: LINK (http://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2016/5/17/11697038/la-lakers-draft-rumors-luke-walton-head-coach?utm_campaign=silverscreenandroll&utm_content=chorus&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter)



Warriors vice president of public relations Raymond Ridder took advantage of Walton's curiosity of his new team's state of affairs to play a prank on him:

Bill OramVerified account
‏@billoram
Before lottery, Warriors PR czar Raymond Ridder texted Luke Walton that Lakers got 4th pick. Luke fell for the prank, now has last laugh.

:lol

[tamaraw08]

I'm content w/ the 2nd pick. Now let's hope Philly will make the stupidest decision of their life. But I'm content with either one of them.

Scouting report says Simmons can't shoot well. Great passer/athlete, dribbler etc. The current rules and workable system demands a lot of spacing, putting a premium on perimeter shooting...
A coworker is concerned that Russell and Simmons are really close and both are really immature, meaning them feeding off each other can be a huge problem.
Having said, that, I am still relieved they didn't lose the pick and that Simmons is still MUCH BETTER than the next available rookies.
BTW, I thought this forum have officially flat lined when I didn't see any reaction 40 mins ago. :lol

[dd24]

I was actually playing basketball tonight so I missed the draft lottery. I just found out they kept the pick. I really hope they don't trade it. I think one of these guys will be very good and it won't be worth moving it because they'll need to move other players. Stick with Randle, Russell, Clarkson, and Simmons/Ingram. They'll be able to eventually land a superstar to play with those guys. Plus Simmons and Ingram both look like they're going to be all-stars. Chances like this don't come around often.

[bladefd]

I was so happy to see us land the 2nd pick.. Truly spectacular!!

I think Ingram would be perfect for this squad.. He may not be as NBA ready as Simmons or as good of an rebounder/passer but he is a very good 3pt shooter and better defender. Exactly what we need.

Go Lakers!

[Lakers91]

I actually forgot with time zone differences when the lottery was, waking up this morning to discover we had the second pick... yep I'm pretty happy with that start to the day :oldlol: i was only in LA a few weeks ago on holiday and I'm missing it already...with Kobe gone could get cheap tickets when I visit again next year I hope :roll:

Either way I'm happy, Simmons will likely as most scouts say the higher potential player (gotta love us Australians :D), or Ingram who is the more "seamless" fit into the team, either way I'm pretty darn happy, either way we'll get a likely all star potential player, I must admit I'm pretty indifferent as to which of Ingram or Simmons we get. There's huge positives to getting either, I think Simmons with chemistry and friendship with D'Angelo and being a Laker fan to memory could really get his butt into gear (lacked intensity and defense) playing here and I think that will certainly ster him up, or Ingram who's game fits seamlessly into the teams current needs a 3&D player who fits with the team too.

[magic chiongson]

thank you byron goat tank commander!

[GimmeThat]

Simmons can be good. Lakers history of paying scorer means that Simmons can concentrate the first half of his career on becoming an unique volume scorer, then focus on intangible in the second half.

[dd24]

What people forget is Philly also has Saric coming over and he plays PF. Saric would also complement Noel, Embiid, and Okafur pretty good too. So they really need a SF. Ingram seems like the most logical fit for them. The crappy part is the Lakers have drafted PF's in the 1st round the past two years. So Ingram is probably the better fit there too. I would have to imagine Philly is looking at a trade of some sort to move one of their bigs. Now that they landed the #1 pick it does look like they can turn things around pretty fast. They're going to be loaded with young talent next season. Tanking may have paid off for them. With Philly taking Ingram possibly, I would look to move Randle. Simmons is the best player of the draft anyhow. If they could move Randle for someone that could play C or another wing it would really help fill the roster out.

[kkinchen]

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=63GAIjzVH3M

This is the player we need to draft. This guy is Tony Allen and Russell Westbrook in one player.

[bladefd]

What people forget is Philly also has Saric coming over and he plays PF. Saric would also complement Noel, Embiid, and Okafur pretty good too. So they really need a SF. Ingram seems like the most logical fit for them. The crappy part is the Lakers have drafted PF's in the 1st round the past two years. So Ingram is probably the better fit there too. I would have to imagine Philly is looking at a trade of some sort to move one of their bigs. Now that they landed the #1 pick it does look like they can turn things around pretty fast. They're going to be loaded with young talent next season. Tanking may have paid off for them. With Philly taking Ingram possibly, I would look to move Randle. Simmons is the best player of the draft anyhow. If they could move Randle for someone that could play C or another wing it would really help fill the roster out.

What about for ball handling? Simmons is a point forward like LeBron so doesn't Philly need a point? :confusedshrug:

Only thing I worry about is having no shooters. Russel and Clarkson are average shooters, Simmons is below average

[crisoner]

Ingram would help us right away with his shooting IMO.

But Simmons has the better potential.

We are good either way!!!!!

ANd we still have money for two max vets!!!

[dd24]

What about for ball handling? Simmons is a point forward like LeBron so doesn't Philly need a point? :confusedshrug:

Only thing I worry about is having no shooters. Russel and Clarkson are average shooters, Simmons is below average
They basically have said the same thing already. They would have to make a move if they draft Simmons. You can't have a team with Simmons, Saric, Noel, Embiid, and Okafur. That's just a huge log jam when you don't have good players in the back court and on the wing. But I really still do think Simmons is the best player in the draft so if you go by that logic maybe they do take him and make a trade. Or they go with what fits now and the Lakers get the best player in the draft. Either way I think LA is in a great spot.

[dd24]

This report says that Philly prefers Simmons

http://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/report-sixers-leaning-heavily-toward-ben-simmons-with-no-1-pick

[dd24]

And play 2 PG's like Phoenix? LA just drafted Russell last year.

[Lakers91]

This report says that Philly prefers Simmons

http://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/report-sixers-leaning-heavily-toward-ben-simmons-with-no-1-pick

Honestly who has any idea what the 76ers will do come draft day :oldlol: , but they need a franchise level player and I really can't see them passing up on Simmons, take the best available talent available and I think they'll trade the assets to make it work. Which means we get Ingram and I'm perfectly happy with that, or if they take Ingram I'll be perfectly happy with that too :oldlol:

I don't think there will be any surprises at this stage (now that I say that haha), I think it's 1 & 2 (Simmons/Ingram) then daylight at this stage who's 3 unless someone really blows the FO away at workouts and interviews.

[dd24]

I wonder if Simmons will try to not work out well for Philly. Maybe make Ingram look better in the workouts. 1 and 2 seem to be locks. That 2nd pick in the draft can be scary though lol. It hasn't worked out for a lot of teams.

[tamaraw08]

This report says that Philly prefers Simmons

http://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/report-sixers-leaning-heavily-toward-ben-simmons-with-no-1-pick

Im predicting Colangelo would shop Okafor or Noel to a team like Denver and get the Nugget's pick or for their future first pick.

[dd24]

Im predicting Colangelo would shop Okafor or Noel to a team like Denver and get the Nugget's pick or for their future first pick.
Denver has two young really good big men. I'm not sure they would want Okafur. They're really happy with the development of Jokic and Nurkic. They have a PG in Mudiay. A really good wing in Gallo. I think they want to move on from Faried. They also seem to be looking for a SG. But I'm sure there's a team out there that would give up a 1st rounder for him. I guess it just depends on how far lower they would be willing to move down than that for him. Probably not much.

[GimmeThat]

if we get Ingram, the equal opportunity offense Luke Walton will try to implement will not work. It will be interesting to see who else we get afterwards.

[tamaraw08]

Denver has two young really good big men. I'm not sure they would want Okafur. They're really happy with the development of Jokic and Nurkic. They have a PG in Mudiay. A really good wing in Gallo. I think they want to move on from Faried. They also seem to be looking for a SG. But I'm sure there's a team out there that would give up a 1st rounder for him. I guess it just depends on how far lower they would be willing to move down than that for him. Probably not much.

Im not sure I agree that they are "really good", sure they could develop but
Nurkic averaging 41.7% 8pts and Jokic ave 7 rebs, .7 blocks are not exactly spectacular.
Sure, OKafor's defense leaves something to be desired but I truly believe that with the right system, good teammates etc, he can give you 18pts, 9 rebs, something like Brook Lopez and Al Jeff has been providing.
Jalil has been put in a very bad situation where his bosses were so obsessed with losing that they let on of their fewest bright spots in Ish Smith(12 pts/game) go just like that.
Maybe not Denver, but it would just not make sense for them to keep all their young centers and PFs.

[dd24]

[QUOTE]NBA Rookie of the Year Karl-Anthony Towns of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Kristaps Porzingis of the New York Knicks have been unanimously selected to the 2015-16 NBA All-Rookie First Team, the NBA announced today. Both players received all 130 First Team votes from a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters in the United States and Canada. Joining Towns and Porzingis on the First Team are the Phoenix Suns

[dd24]

And by the way Russell was a 2nd team selection:

[QUOTE]The NBA All-Rookie Second Team consists of the Miami Heat

[LA.MJ&KB#1]

It's obvious the Lakers are in a great position and I'm hoping we could some how get a nice center. I'm thinking no matter what Ben Simmons will become a laker down the road.

Let's focus on getting Hassan and Ingram and trade Clarkson to make room for DeRozan or Barnes.

[dd24]

I like that idea.

[kkinchen]

I think we should take Kris Dunn with the number 2 pick. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=63GAIjzVH3M


There is a chance my boy Thon Maker will be available in the second round too. So, that's an obvious pick there also.

[bladefd]

It's obvious the Lakers are in a great position and I'm hoping we could some how get a nice center. I'm thinking no matter what Ben Simmons will become a laker down the road.

Let's focus on getting Hassan and Ingram and trade Clarkson to make room for DeRozan or Barnes.

I definitely think we should try to get Whiteside as a priority.. You don't even need to draw any plays for Whiteside as he is the rebounder/put-back guy like Rodman in the trenches so I like that. Isn't Harrison Barnes a SF?

Otherwise, good idea! :cheers:

[dd24]

Yup, Barnes is a SF. He's going to get a big deal, and he's just going to end up being a role player where ever he signs. I'm not sure he's worth all the money.

[bladefd]

I don't know if I would trade Clarkson for DeRozan.. I don't think I would :confusedshrug:

They are equal on offense, Clarkson is much cheaper.

[kkinchen]

Metta World Peace recently suggested we should draft Thon Maker in the second round if he is still available. I suggested that a while ago, and hope he is available at 32 when we pick.

Other than that, I really hope we take the best defensive player with our number 2 pick. Ingram is know for his defense, as is Bender, as is Dunn.

We have a chance to rebuild fast this summer by signing other quality DEFENSIVE players such as Biyombo and Harrison Barnes.

[dd24]

Defense is way over rated in the NBA. There's no locking down certain players. I just want the best all around player available. That will be Ingram or Simmons.

[LA.MJ&KB#1]

Defense is way over rated in the NBA. There's no locking down certain players. I just want the best all around player available. That will be Ingram or Simmons.
I agree:cheers:

[dd24]

Wow, I just read this article that shows how the #2 picks in the NBA have done, and it did some comparisons to the #1 pick.

http://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/infographics-how-valuable-the-no-2-pick-in-the-nba-draft-has-been/

It's super rare for the #1 and #2 picks to both be really good players. So let's hope whoever Philly picks is a bust lol. #2 picks stay with the team that drafted them less years, they have shorter careers in general, and less all-star appearances. I'd like to see the stats for picks 1-10 and compare all of them.

[$LakerGold]

I think Simmons + D'Lo has to happen. They're buddy-buddies, so let's hope that translate over to chemistry in-game. LA life is a given, just hope they don't run into trouble off the court. That's all I can say if BS can force his way to the Lakers, I really hope he does. They really can feed off of each other, I feel like (both D'Lo & BS).

[tamaraw08]

I think Simmons + D'Lo has to happen. They're buddy-buddies, so let's hope that translate over to chemistry in-game. LA life is a given, just hope they don't run into trouble off the court. That's all I can say if BS can force his way to the Lakers, I really hope he does. They really can feed off of each other, I feel like (both D'Lo & BS).

Be careful what you wish for cause both, Russell and "BS" can also feed off each other with their immaturity, being so laid back and laughing all the time etc. Luke says cut it off, they look at each other and say, "Chill Luke, we got this, if not, what are you going to do about it?". :confusedshrug:
Do you really what to bench the "future" of this team?, they tag team and forces Buss hand and say, "WE" hate Luke, it's not working out, either fire him or trade US...

[dd24]

If Philly trades Noel or Okafur I'm pretty sure we'll know who they are drafting. I would have to think they are going after Simmons.

[$LakerGold]

That's something that hasn't even happened yet, might not even at all. This is the Lakers, not the Cavaliers. I think that most of you who doubt the FO just need to give them a little bit of credit now that they've turned this shit around, or at least trust now that they have finally proved what they are capable off post-Kobe era -- I mean, it doesn't take a genius to come up with tanking, but at least they got it done, they got the job done & now their future is brighter compared to two years ago, not perfect, but better. Remember that it's all speculations & possibilities until it has happened. There are those tendencies, I'm aware, but again this is the Lakers. I know it's cliche, but it's true -- these are seasoned veterans league/team manager. Tamaraw, it seems like you're ready to accept the fact that-that's what actually is going to happen & accepted it if they do draft him.

Now, why am I reiterating this (all of the above)? Because:

Luke says cut it off, they look at each other and say, "Chill Luke, we got this, if not, what are you going to do about it?".
Do you really what to bench the "future" of this team?, they tag team and forces Buss hand and say, "WE" hate Luke, it's not working out, either fire him or trade US...

You asked me if I want to "bench" the future? What? Certainly not, I'm sure that is one of the worst case scenario, but knowing what Ben Simmons has to offer to the team, I would rather risk the chance. By that logic from what you stated above, then every team would have worst case scenarios based on speculations/tendencies that are likely going to happen, I am pretty sure. That's a fallacy.

When I say "feed off", I'm aware of the negative aspect of it & how it can have a major impact on the future of the team, WE can only hope for the best & that is what I said in my post. There are no safe picks in this draft. BS could be a bust, Ingram could be a bust & the top 10 becomes a superstar & vice-versa, who the f* knows? But again, we all know why people want BS (& no, I'm not including the idiots who comment on LakerNation articles on Facebook). lol

Also, let's not pretend that Kobe was vanilla / lowkey/ uncontreversial / giving canned answers all throughout his career, please.

[bladefd]

Just hope we get Brandon Ingram. Less pressure that way and we know he is a very good shooter and better defensive player. :confusedshrug:

[tamaraw08]

That's something that hasn't even happened yet, might not even at all. This is the Lakers, not the Cavaliers. I think that most of you who doubt the FO just need to give them a little bit of credit now that they've turned this shit around, or at least trust now that they have finally proved what they are capable off post-Kobe era -- I mean, it doesn't take a genius to come up with tanking, but at least they got it done, they got the job done & now their future is brighter compared to two years ago, not perfect, but better. Remember that it's all speculations & possibilities until it has happened. There are those tendencies, I'm aware, but again this is the Lakers. I know it's cliche, but it's true -- these are seasoned veterans league/team manager. Tamaraw, it seems like you're ready to accept the fact that-that's what actually is going to happen & accepted it if they do draft him.

Now, why am I reiterating this (all of the above)? Because:


You asked me if I want to "bench" the future? What? Certainly not, I'm sure that is one of the worst case scenario, but knowing what Ben Simmons has to offer to the team, I would rather risk the chance. By that logic from what you stated above, then every team would have worst case scenarios based on speculations/tendencies that are likely going to happen, I am pretty sure. That's a fallacy.

When I say "feed off", I'm aware of the negative aspect of it & how it can have a major impact on the future of the team, WE can only hope for the best & that is what I said in my post. There are no safe picks in this draft. BS could be a bust, Ingram could be a bust & the top 10 becomes a superstar & vice-versa, who the f* knows? But again, we all know why people want BS (& no, I'm not including the idiots who comment on LakerNation articles on Facebook). lol

Also, let's not pretend that Kobe was vanilla / lowkey/ uncontreversial / giving canned answers all throughout his career, please.

Lakersgold, I am truly sorry if I offended you. Yes, you are right, no one truly knows who will be the superstar or who would be a bust, yes I am probably overly concerned about the prospect of having two incredibly young players who happened to be close to each other emotionally.
Byron revealed that Russell sometimes act like a 14 year old and had concerns about his work ethic. They bump heads, and now Scott is gone.
Enter another very gifted young athlete whom I read belonged a good bred family, chose to be not mentored/nurtured/trained by great coaches like Izzy, coach K, Self,Calipari, Roy Williams etc etc instead went to a subpar program where he failed to help his team to land to the top 64 teams in the NCAA....
I mentioned good family, then I looked at the current super competitors playing right now. Durant lived with a poor mother.
Westbrook, not heavily recruited out of HS, same with Klay Thompson and Curry.
Green, not drafted high etc etc. And BS' biggest concern from scouts? Not very fierce, as in not having that assassin mentality.
And now I hear, he hates Philly and wanted to go to LA, well, if he is that great, no problem, right? well I remember how I hated Eli Manning for refusing to play for San Diego, for being entitled and getting what he wanted....so maybe I am just biased...
Again 2 incredibly young boys who happened to be close friends, just like King Solomon's son Rehoboam who has so attached to his friends...
But please don't forget, I am also a Lakers fan.:cheers:
Hopefully and prayerfully you are right, for our team's sake.

[tamaraw08]

That's something that hasn't even happened yet, might not even at all. This is the Lakers, not the Cavaliers. I think that most of you who doubt the FO just need to give them a little bit of credit now that they've turned this shit around, or at least trust now that they have finally proved what they are capable off post-Kobe era -- I mean, it doesn't take a genius to come up with tanking, but at least they got it done, they got the job done & now their future is brighter compared to two years ago, not perfect, but better. Remember that it's all speculations & possibilities until it has happened. There are those tendencies, I'm aware, but again this is the Lakers. I know it's cliche, but it's true -- these are seasoned veterans league/team manager. Tamaraw, it seems like you're ready to accept the fact that-that's what actually is going to happen & accepted it if they do draft him.

Now, why am I reiterating this (all of the above)? Because:


You asked me if I want to "bench" the future? What? Certainly not, I'm sure that is one of the worst case scenario, but knowing what Ben Simmons has to offer to the team, I would rather risk the chance. By that logic from what you stated above, then every team would have worst case scenarios based on speculations/tendencies that are likely going to happen, I am pretty sure. That's a fallacy.

When I say "feed off", I'm aware of the negative aspect of it & how it can have a major impact on the future of the team, WE can only hope for the best & that is what I said in my post. There are no safe picks in this draft. BS could be a bust, Ingram could be a bust & the top 10 becomes a superstar & vice-versa, who the f* knows? But again, we all know why people want BS (& no, I'm not including the idiots who comment on LakerNation articles on Facebook). lol

Also, let's not pretend that Kobe was vanilla / lowkey/ uncontreversial / giving canned answers all throughout his career, please.

Lakersgold, I am truly sorry if I offended you. Yes, you are right, no one truly knows who will be the superstar or who would be a bust, yes I am probably overly concerned about the prospect of having too incredibly young players who happened to be close to each other emotionally.
Byron revealed that Russell sometimes act like a 14 year old and had concerns about his work ethic. They bump heads, and now Scott is gone.
Enter another very gifted young athlete whom I read belonged a good bred family, chose to be not mentored/nurtured/trained by great coaches like Izzy, coach K, Self,Calipari, Roy Williams etc etc instead went to a subpar program where he failed to help his team to land to the top 64 teams in the NCAA....
I mentioned good family, then I looked at the current super competitors playing right now. Durant lived with a poor mother.
Westbrook, not heavily recruited out of HS, same with Klay Thompson and Curry.
Green, not drafted high etc etc. And BS' biggest concern from scouts? Not very fierce, as in having that assassin mentality.
And now I hear, he hates Philly and wanted to go to LA, well, if he is that great, no problem, right? well I remember how I hated Eli Manning for refusing to play for San Diego, for being entitled and getting what he wanted....
Again 2 incredibly young guys who happened to be close friends, just like King Solomon's son Rehoboam who has so attached to his friends...
But please don't forget, I am also a Lakers fan.:cheers:
Hopefully and prayerfully you are right, for our team's sake.

[tamaraw08]

oopsie, just read above. :(

[dd24]

Well, we're a week away from the draft and nobody is talking about it anymore lol. I think it's just a forgone conclusion that Philly will draft Simmons and the Lakers will draft Ingram and there's really nothing left to say. The only interesting thing will be who it is Philly eventually trades.

[bladefd]

Philly told Simmons yesterday they are taking him 1st.

Welcome our brand new Laker Brandon Ingram!! Best and most talented player since James Worthy :cheers:
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/uiZTj8bQjrs/hqdefault.jpg

[tamaraw08]

Philly told Simmons yesterday they are taking him 1st.

Welcome our brand new Laker Brandon Ingram!! Best and most talented player since James Worthy :cheers:
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/uiZTj8bQjrs/hqdefault.jpg

Are you just over excited or are you taking a swipe at Kobe, Shaq and even Pau.:eek:

[$LakerGold]

Lakersgold, I am truly sorry if I offended you. Yes, you are right, no one truly knows who will be the superstar or who would be a bust, yes I am probably overly concerned about the prospect of having too incredibly young players who happened to be close to each other emotionally.
Byron revealed that Russell sometimes act like a 14 year old and had concerns about his work ethic. They bump heads, and now Scott is gone.
Enter another very gifted young athlete whom I read belonged a good bred family, chose to be not mentored/nurtured/trained by great coaches like Izzy, coach K, Self,Calipari, Roy Williams etc etc instead went to a subpar program where he failed to help his team to land to the top 64 teams in the NCAA....
I mentioned good family, then I looked at the current super competitors playing right now. Durant lived with a poor mother.
Westbrook, not heavily recruited out of HS, same with Klay Thompson and Curry.
Green, not drafted high etc etc. And BS' biggest concern from scouts? Not very fierce, as in having that assassin mentality.
And now I hear, he hates Philly and wanted to go to LA, well, if he is that great, no problem, right? well I remember how I hated Eli Manning for refusing to play for San Diego, for being entitled and getting what he wanted....
Again 2 incredibly young guys who happened to be close friends, just like King Solomon's son Rehoboam who has so attached to his friends...
But please don't forget, I am also a Lakers fan.:cheers:
Hopefully and prayerfully you are right, for our team's sake.
I wasn't offended, it's just how I express myself. :lol Sorry for the late reply, bro.

Anyway, I understand where you're coming from. But I guess I like to play with the odds? Idk. Like I said, I'd be fine with either one of them. If our draftee turns out to be a bust, then oh well, onto the next one. :lol JK, of course.

Laker fam, tomorrow night. Don't miss it. I'll be down for some live-posting. :D

:cheers:

[$LakerGold]

Philly told Simmons yesterday they are taking him 1st.

Welcome our brand new Laker Brandon Ingram!! Best and most talented player since James Worthy :cheers:
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/uiZTj8bQjrs/hqdefault.jpg
No you didn't. :roll:

[dd24]

I bet you if Chicago goes full rebuild now they would think about moving Jimmy Butler for that #2 pick. Maybe he goes to the Celtics since they have more to offer though. I just was thinking about how that team really isn't good. They may as well blow it up now. Noah and Gasol will walk. Rose is gone. It's just Butler and a few nice young players.

[bladefd]

No you didn't. :roll:

What other draft pick have we had more talented? Nick van Exel? Nah. D'angelo Russell? Nah.

[magic chiongson]

let's see what happens after 3 years. players we have drafted: elden campbell, van exel, eddie jones, bynum

[tamaraw08]

Who should be there for the 32nd pick? Any Center or PF who can atleast contribute?
Are these guys available?
1. Tarczewski, Kaleb, Arizona.
2. Przemek Karnowski, Gonzaga?
3. Nikola Jovanovic of USC?

[dd24]

Lakers have two solid PF's. I don't see any need for that position. C they need for sure though. Probably a guy to take Sacre's spot.

[$LakerGold]

Here we go, boys.

[dd24]

Ooh the suspense. I wonder who they pick.

[$LakerGold]

:applause: Welcome to lalaland.

[bladefd]

FA, here we come!

[tamaraw08]

Lakers have two solid PF's. I don't see any need for that position. C they need for sure though. Probably a guy to take Sacre's spot.

I only mentioned one PF who is 6-11 and have played spot minutes at center in Jovanovic. You are right, They really need a center esp Im so done with Sacre who can't even do a simple legal pick. :facepalm
Tarczewsky signed non guaranteed to play the SPL with Washington.
Karnowski is actually a huge 7-2 behemoth from Gonzaga who destroyed UCLA 2 NCAA tournaments ago, he's got skills but might be too slow to cover and switch for PnR situations.
Mitch doesn't get enough credit finding guys like Clarkson but I can't remember him finding good serviceable big guys like Miami.

I also like Josh Scott of Colorado, he was named PaC 12 both first team and first defensive team, he is 6-10 and 245 lbs but he also signed with Denver.
Lakers badly need a center both as a starter and a backup and the one they just drafted is very raw. I'm not sure why they are not very active in signing atleast 4 centers with non guaranteed contracts and go from there.:(

[dd24]

It has been in the rumors lately that they are going to go after Whiteside as their top target in free agency this week too.

[tamaraw08]

It has been in the rumors lately that they are going to go after Whiteside as their top target in free agency this week too.


I heard that too but there were also like 4 teams ready to offer the max with this guy who had concerns about his attitude.
My question is, what is the downside of signing the 3 best available centers to play in the SPL and found out atleast if 1 or 2 are good enough to play for you. By doing nothing, you get ZERO chance of knowing.

[Dictator]

I hope Ingram becomes our new franchise star.

[$LakerGold]

What other draft pick have we had more talented? Nick van Exel? Nah. D'angelo Russell? Nah.
I completely misread that. Lol

[$LakerGold]

Simmons back in practice.