NBA Rumors: Lakers Talking 1st-Round Picks In Jazz Trade Talks

For the longest time, we've been hearing that the Los Angeles Lakers would be refusing to give up their much-ballyhooed 2027 and 2029 first-rounders unless it was for something that made them into true championship contenders.

But according to the latest rumors, they just might be ready to come around and appease LeBron by doing something with those picks.

The Jazz have discussed a deal that would send a combination of rotation players including Mike Conley and Malik Beasley to the Lakers for 2027 and 2029 first-round picks and Russell Westbrook, per @espn_macmahon

Russell Westbrook would likely receive a buyout after the trade. pic.twitter.com/AlOA7JczDs
— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) February 7, 2023

ESPN's Tim MacMahon says the Lakers could actually move those picks in a deal for a veteran point guard and a shooting guard.

Sources said the Jazz have had discussions about a deal in which a combination of rotation players including Conley and Beasley would go to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for 2027 and 2029 first-round picks and Russell Westbrook, who would likely receive a buyout instead of joining the Jazz.

But the Lakers are also dangling Westbrook in other talks as well.

“Along with the Jazz, sources have told Hoops Wire the Lakers have talked Westbrook trade with the Spurs and Hornets. They have also spoken to the Pistons, sources said, though it has not been determined if Westbrook was mentioned in those talks.”

- @AmicoHoops
— Ryan Rueda (@iDude14) February 7, 2023

Sam Amico reports that “along with the Jazz, sources have told Hoops Wire the Lakers have talked Westbrook trade with the Spurs and Hornets. They have also spoken to the Pistons, sources said, though it has not been determined if Westbrook was mentioned in those talks.”

Perhaps the aftermath of Kyrie Irving slipping through their fingers inspires the Lakers to do something — anything — in an attempt to improve the team to keep LeBron happy.

Photo: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports