09 Jun 2015 19:51:57
"All signs point point to Timberwolves taking Okafor, " it's just a rumor but would be ideal for the Lakers situation.

Jordan Hill and Nick Young don't have a ton of trade value but I think if you package them with #27 and #34 you can move up in to the top 10-12 to hopefully get Stanley Johnson. He's listed at 6'7 245 which is very strong for a SG/SF. He could be difference maker on the defensive end and continue to develop an outside shot to stretch the floor around Randle/Towns.

Clarkson needs to work on his jump shot a lot this year but I like his length defensively. A core of Clarkson, Johnson, Randle and Towns would give the Lakers tons of flexibility in free agency the next two years.

My dream scenario would be to bring in Tom Thibodeau and sign a guy like Jimmy Butler, DeMarre Carroll, Jae Crowder or Draymond Green. Butler is the only flashy sign but they are all very strong defensive players. The Lakers would have the roster/coach to be one of the top defensive teams for the next 5-10 years.

Every player has the ability to contribute on offense any given night but their main focus would be to shut teams down on defense. That'll be the quickest way to get back in to contention in the West. There are too many teams that try to shoot you out of the gym. With a legit 7'0 rim protector, a long 6'5 and 6'7 back court to be physical with the top guards in the West. Randle can use his strength to be a very good team defender like Draymond Green does for the Warriors. Stanley has the tools to be an All-NBA defensive player in a few years.

A team like that would still have a lot of financial flexibility in 2016/2017 with 4 players on rookie contracts, Kobe off the books and the increase salary cap.

The Lakers have the draw of being the best basketball franchise in the nba, located in one of the biggest markets in the US and having a strong core of youth. Superstars like Durant and Westbrook would be dying to be the final piece of the puzzle. They'd be able to pick up the torch from Kobe and put a their own championship banners in the rafters of Staples

1.) 10 Jun 2015
10 Jun 2015 05:14:51
I like your think man. I'd say Draymond out of the 4 you listed. Clarkson is definitely a keeper and you mentioning Stanley Johnson let's me know you know your stuff. But it's all unlikely in my opinion but you make great points!