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Quick Bytes
- Pelicans defer Lakers’ 2024 first-round draft pick to 2025.
- Lakers won a championship post-Anthony Davis trade, Pelicans yet to advance past first round.
- Lakers GM Rob Pelinka has options to trade or use the 17th pick for roster upgrades.
- Bronny James, LeBron’s son, to meet with Lakers and Suns ahead of the NBA Draft.
Lakers’ Draft Strategy Takes Shape as Pelicans Defer Pick
The Los Angeles Lakers’ future considerations have become clearer as the New Orleans Pelicans opt to defer a first-round draft pick to 2025, a remnant of the Anthony Davis trade.
In a strategic move, the Pelicans have decided to pass on the Lakers’ 2024 first-round pick, eyeing a potentially stronger draft the following year. This decision, confirmed by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, allows the Lakers to utilize the 17th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. With this pick, the Lakers could either draft a new talent or trade for immediate roster improvements. Lakers GM Rob Pelinka now has the flexibility to shape the team’s future, with additional first-round picks in 2029 and 2031 also in play.
The Lakers, having secured a championship following the blockbuster Davis trade, are now positioned to go all-in this season. Meanwhile, the Pelicans have yet to make a significant playoff impact since the deal. Speculation is also rising around Bronny James, LeBron James’ son, who is set to meet with both the Lakers and the Phoenix Suns, indicating potential draft interest.
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