News 'n Views - May 2016: The Lakers' adjusted culture could pay dividends going forward
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lakerjoshua
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PostPosted: Thu May 19, 2016 3:40 pm    Post subject:

lakersfreak wrote:
Lakers to 'actively explore' trading second overall pick, according to report
by Harrison Faigen - silverscreenandroll.com

Could the front office value a "proven" player over adding another young one?

The Los Angeles Lakers received a major boon to their franchise on Tuesday night when a few ping pong balls bounced their way and left them with the second overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. Most consider Duke's Brandon Ingram and LSU's Ben Simmons the top two players in the draft in some order before a major (perceived) talent drop-off, meaning the Lakers seem likely to select whichever of the two players Philadelphia doesn't choose first overall.

Reports have conflicted on who the Lakers would pick between the two players if given the choice. Chad Ford of ESPN reported that Simmons had the slight edge on Los Angeles' draft board on Tuesday, while Kevin Ding of Bleacher Report said that the team was "wowed" by Ingram during a pre-draft interview at the combine in Chicago while Philadelphia prefers Simmons.

Who Philadelphia or Los Angeles values may not matter, however, if they are not the ones actually making the selections. Ding reports that the Lakers will "actively explore trading the pick," and it sounds like the Sixers will do the same:

The 76ers, despite suggesting they don't anticipate trading the No. 1 pick that already had club officials dancing the night away in New York, actually may be the team more likely to get a draft deal done.

New general manager and team president Bryan Colangelo, hired to jump-start former GM Sam Hinkie's much maligned "process" that sucked the life out of the franchise, is very much looking to trade.

Colangelo has other picks and one of the big men from the youthful group of Nerlens Noel, Jahlil Okafor and Joel Embiid to offer. Atlanta Hawks point guard Jeff Teague, 27, would be a logical target with the rise of Dennis Schroder, 22.

But the 76ers also have in mind that Simmons can initiate a lot of offense, something they've lacked as much as outside shooting. And they're going to need time to grow anyway.


Putting aside how hilarious it would be if Philadelphia actually traded the first overall pick (rather than one of their other mentioned frontcourt players) for Teague, as Ding notes, neither team may be able to find appropriate value for their picks if they decide to deal them.

Whether or not Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak and the rest of the front office "want to get better as soon as possible—in part to make sure Philadelphia doesn't get too good of a pick next year when the Lakers' first-rounder conveys to the 76ers if it's outside the top three," as Ding writes, it probably makes a lot more sense for the team to forgo immediate improvement and concentrate on developing a sustainable core going forward.

Continued....


Lakers should trade our pick along with Nick Young and removal of the 17' protection to Philly for the 1st pick and cash.
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Runway8
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PostPosted: Thu May 19, 2016 4:08 pm    Post subject:

lakerjoshua wrote:
lakersfreak wrote:
Lakers to 'actively explore' trading second overall pick, according to report
by Harrison Faigen - silverscreenandroll.com

Could the front office value a "proven" player over adding another young one?

The Los Angeles Lakers received a major boon to their franchise on Tuesday night when a few ping pong balls bounced their way and left them with the second overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. Most consider Duke's Brandon Ingram and LSU's Ben Simmons the top two players in the draft in some order before a major (perceived) talent drop-off, meaning the Lakers seem likely to select whichever of the two players Philadelphia doesn't choose first overall.

Reports have conflicted on who the Lakers would pick between the two players if given the choice. Chad Ford of ESPN reported that Simmons had the slight edge on Los Angeles' draft board on Tuesday, while Kevin Ding of Bleacher Report said that the team was "wowed" by Ingram during a pre-draft interview at the combine in Chicago while Philadelphia prefers Simmons.

Who Philadelphia or Los Angeles values may not matter, however, if they are not the ones actually making the selections. Ding reports that the Lakers will "actively explore trading the pick," and it sounds like the Sixers will do the same:

The 76ers, despite suggesting they don't anticipate trading the No. 1 pick that already had club officials dancing the night away in New York, actually may be the team more likely to get a draft deal done.

New general manager and team president Bryan Colangelo, hired to jump-start former GM Sam Hinkie's much maligned "process" that sucked the life out of the franchise, is very much looking to trade.

Colangelo has other picks and one of the big men from the youthful group of Nerlens Noel, Jahlil Okafor and Joel Embiid to offer. Atlanta Hawks point guard Jeff Teague, 27, would be a logical target with the rise of Dennis Schroder, 22.

But the 76ers also have in mind that Simmons can initiate a lot of offense, something they've lacked as much as outside shooting. And they're going to need time to grow anyway.


Putting aside how hilarious it would be if Philadelphia actually traded the first overall pick (rather than one of their other mentioned frontcourt players) for Teague, as Ding notes, neither team may be able to find appropriate value for their picks if they decide to deal them.

Whether or not Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak and the rest of the front office "want to get better as soon as possible—in part to make sure Philadelphia doesn't get too good of a pick next year when the Lakers' first-rounder conveys to the 76ers if it's outside the top three," as Ding writes, it probably makes a lot more sense for the team to forgo immediate improvement and concentrate on developing a sustainable core going forward.

Continued....


Lakers should trade our pick along with Nick Young and removal of the 17' protection to Philly for the 1st pick and cash.


Why in the world? You wanna get rid of Young that bad? Just waive him. In case you're awful again next year, why would you want to remove the contingency? It's a coin flip between Simmons and Ingram, you might get the guy you want anyway at #2.
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lakerjoshua
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PostPosted: Thu May 19, 2016 8:43 pm    Post subject:

Runway8 wrote:
lakerjoshua wrote:
lakersfreak wrote:
Lakers to 'actively explore' trading second overall pick, according to report
by Harrison Faigen - silverscreenandroll.com

Could the front office value a "proven" player over adding another young one?

The Los Angeles Lakers received a major boon to their franchise on Tuesday night when a few ping pong balls bounced their way and left them with the second overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. Most consider Duke's Brandon Ingram and LSU's Ben Simmons the top two players in the draft in some order before a major (perceived) talent drop-off, meaning the Lakers seem likely to select whichever of the two players Philadelphia doesn't choose first overall.

Reports have conflicted on who the Lakers would pick between the two players if given the choice. Chad Ford of ESPN reported that Simmons had the slight edge on Los Angeles' draft board on Tuesday, while Kevin Ding of Bleacher Report said that the team was "wowed" by Ingram during a pre-draft interview at the combine in Chicago while Philadelphia prefers Simmons.

Who Philadelphia or Los Angeles values may not matter, however, if they are not the ones actually making the selections. Ding reports that the Lakers will "actively explore trading the pick," and it sounds like the Sixers will do the same:

The 76ers, despite suggesting they don't anticipate trading the No. 1 pick that already had club officials dancing the night away in New York, actually may be the team more likely to get a draft deal done.

New general manager and team president Bryan Colangelo, hired to jump-start former GM Sam Hinkie's much maligned "process" that sucked the life out of the franchise, is very much looking to trade.

Colangelo has other picks and one of the big men from the youthful group of Nerlens Noel, Jahlil Okafor and Joel Embiid to offer. Atlanta Hawks point guard Jeff Teague, 27, would be a logical target with the rise of Dennis Schroder, 22.

But the 76ers also have in mind that Simmons can initiate a lot of offense, something they've lacked as much as outside shooting. And they're going to need time to grow anyway.


Putting aside how hilarious it would be if Philadelphia actually traded the first overall pick (rather than one of their other mentioned frontcourt players) for Teague, as Ding notes, neither team may be able to find appropriate value for their picks if they decide to deal them.

Whether or not Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak and the rest of the front office "want to get better as soon as possible—in part to make sure Philadelphia doesn't get too good of a pick next year when the Lakers' first-rounder conveys to the 76ers if it's outside the top three," as Ding writes, it probably makes a lot more sense for the team to forgo immediate improvement and concentrate on developing a sustainable core going forward.

Continued....


Lakers should trade our pick along with Nick Young and removal of the 17' protection to Philly for the 1st pick and cash.


Why in the world? You wanna get rid of Young that bad? Just waive him. In case you're awful again next year, why would you want to remove the contingency? It's a coin flip between Simmons and Ingram, you might get the guy you want anyway at #2.


Call me an optimist but I think we will win enough games next year that our pick will fall outside the top 3 so it's not a huge deal to remove the protection. You do realize we can't just "waive" Young right? We'd have to stretch him and that counts against or cap. Freeing up a little more cap space while getting rid of Young is worth it especially if it puts us in the drivers seat this draft. A number one pick ensures we get the player we want and puts us in a better position to trade it if needed.

Your suggestion means we pay Young to go away, getting nothing in return, for the slightest chance we happen to luck into another top 3 pick next season while keeping our fingers crossed that the guy we want falls to us this year....ouch.
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PostPosted: Thu May 19, 2016 10:02 pm    Post subject:

Mitch Kupchak says the Lakers do not plan to trade the second overall pick
by Harrison Faigen - silverscreenandroll.com

Los Angeles' GM discussed the draft during a radio appearance on Thursday.

The Los Angeles Lakers got the lottery luck they needed on Tuesday night, receiving the second overall pick in the NBA Draft when the ping pong balls bounced their way in New York. After the worst season in franchise history, the pick is a much-needed reward for the franchise, even if their general manager did not expect to keep it.

"Getting the pick, to me, is a bonus and it's a wonderful asset to have," said Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak during an appearance on AM 570 LA sports with Bill Reiter and LeAnn Tweeden on Thursday. "At number two, you should get a good player."

A high lottery pick is a great asset for any NBA team. In a draft that is considered by most to have two clear top talents (although Kupchak himself said he wasn't sure the gap between two and three was as large as most think), the second overall pick is a great spot to be. The Lakers will either be able to take one of the most talented players in the draft, or trade the pick for an established star.

There have been rumors about the latter option, but Kupchak said that right now the team plans to add another young player to their core rather than trying to swap it for a veteran.

Continued....
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PostPosted: Thu May 19, 2016 10:03 pm    Post subject:

D'Angelo Russell Named to All-Rookie Second Team
by nba.com

Los Angeles Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell has been named to the NBA’s All-Rookie Second Team, it was announced today. Russell is the second consecutive Laker to be honored with an All-Rookie team selection, joining Jordan Clarkson who was selected to the First Team last season, and is the fourth Laker in team history (Kobe Bryant and Travis Knight in 1996-97 and Nick Van Exel in 1993-94) to be awarded Second Team honors.

The second overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft played in 80 games (48 starts) in 2015-16, averaging 13.2 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.16 steals in 28.2 minutes per game. He finished the year ranked 4th among rookies in assists and steals, and 5th in points and three-point field goal percentage, and was one of 10 American rookie and sophomore players selected by the league’s assistant coaches to participate in the Rising Stars Challenge at NBA All-Star 2016.

The 20-year-old became the youngest player in NBA history to make 120+ three-pointers in a single season, as well as the youngest player in NBA history to make eight three-pointers in a game March 1 vs. Brooklyn (20 years and seven days old). The eight triples was the franchise record for a rookie. Russell is one of only 20 rookies in NBA history to make 120 triples in a season and finished the season tied for 15th all-time among rookies in most three-pointers made in a season (130).

The Louisville, KY native scored 20+ points 13 times and 30+ points twice, including a career-high 39 point performance in the March 1 contest against the Nets, the most points scored by a Lakers rookie since Elgin Baylor scored 39 on 3/11/59.

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PostPosted: Fri May 20, 2016 7:56 am    Post subject:

Breaking Down All The Potential Lakers Free Agent Targets
by lakersoutsiders.com

Free agency always gets hyped up, and one of my issues with that is commentators usually have no idea who is available in the free agent market. Of course, everyone knows Kevin Durant and Hassan Whiteside will be free-agents, but it usually stops there. Given that only 7 of the top 31 free agents (as ranked by SBNation) switched jersey’s last summer (and actually two of those guys became Lakers!), it’s my view that free agency gets way too much attention because fans and even analysts generally have no idea who is available. By breaking down the supply of free agents, one can reasonably project which guys are attainable and which are a pipe dream.

Below, I’ve created a list of free agents, with the emphasis based around a Lakers-centric view. What that means is, I’m not listing guys who are looking to be starting point guards or power forwards – unless they are malleable and able to play a different role around the Lakers’ core. So for example, listing Jeremy Lin would not make sense since he’s probably looking for a ton of playing time and doesn’t really fit with the core. Mike Conley on the other hand, while still a PG, can play alongside Russell or Clarkson. Ryan Anderson should not be considered at all since he cannot play any other positions and would require a ton of money, while a guy like Lance Thomas would cost a reasonable amount and can be molded around the core as a backup SF/PF.

Essentially, a free agent has to “fit” one way or another: Fill the holes on the wing, be able to play center, become a backup point guard and/or one that can play alongside Russell/Clarkson, or have some type of age benefit (IE- Older ‘rental’ veterans to help guide this young team, or another young talent).

I also did not list unrealistic targets like LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Dwight Howard, or Andre Drummond – for obvious reasons.

Some notes: A player with an asterisk next to their name is restricted, while a player in italics has a player or team option. The names are roughly listed by the order of how much sense they make to the Lakers. And lastly, yes, I know some guys can be listed at other positions, but for symmetry sakes, I moved a few guys into different columns.

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PostPosted: Fri May 20, 2016 7:57 am    Post subject:

Top 25 NBA Free Agents 2016: Who Could Lakers Sign?
by Cody Williams - lakeshowlife.com

Ranking the best NBA free agents in 2016 and assessing their fit with and the chances they end up on the Lakers

Pick any year in the NBA and there are going to be some big-name NBA free agents that every team is gawking over. With superstars and high draft picks coming into the league year by year, that’s just how things work. However, 2016 NBA free agency is a bit more curious than normal given everything around it.

Not only are there some massive names that are either for sure or could possibly be hitting the open market this offseason, but there are also going to be a ton of teams that have an enormous amount of cap space as the salary cap is set to spike as the new TV deal with the league kicks in. That’s going to leave plenty of teams with the room to try and sign some of these big-name NBA free agents that will be available.

One team that’s going to have that flexibility is going to be the Los Angeles Lakers and it certainly comes at an interesting time. Not only are the Lakers rebuilding in a major way around their young players that they’ve drafted over the past few years, but they are also moving into a post-Kobe Bryant era and doing so with over $60 million in room underneath the salary cap this summer.

With the Lakers having those types of moves to make and the ability to really make some noise in free agency, it’s important to assess everything that’s out there and see how the Lakers factor in. Having that in mind, here’s a look at our top 25 NBA free agents for the 2016 offseason and what the chances are that the Lakers sign them.

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PostPosted: Fri May 20, 2016 7:58 am    Post subject:

Miami To Offer Hassan Whiteside Less Than Max Contract?
by Corey Hansford - lakersnation.com

Once free agency begins this off-season, one of the most sought after free agents will be Miami Heat center Hassan Whiteside. With a massive hole at center, the Los Angeles Lakers are expected to be one of many teams attempting to bring him in.

The 26-year old led the NBA in blocked shots by a wide margin and also ranked third in rebounding. With so many teams having cap space it is expected that Whiteside will command a maximum contract this summer.

According to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, however, the Heat may try to convince Whiteside to take less money to remain with the team:

There will be considerable debate inside the Heat over the next six weeks about how much to offer Hassan Whiteside when free agency begins July 1.

The Heat values him but someone who has spoken to the team’s front office said he believes the Heat will try to convince him to take something less than the max deal he almost assuredly could get elsewhere.


This mindset would make sense as Whiteside presents an interesting dilemma for the Heat. The Heat do not own Whiteside’s Bird Rights meaning they can’t go over the cap to re-sign him. This means if the Heat were to sign Whiteside to a max deal, they would have very little money to sign any other major free agents. With Dwyane Wade, Luol Deng, and Joe Johnson all free agents as well, the Heat are in a tough situation.

And apparently the Heat have a major one in mind as they plan to pursue Kevin Durant, and if they are successful in doing so, it makes it highly unlikely they will retain Whiteside:

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PostPosted: Fri May 20, 2016 7:59 am    Post subject:

Popularity of Kobe Bryant Never Faltered
by Shereen Rayan - lakeshowlife.com

Kobe Bryant’s sustained popularity with fans is one of the biggest parts of his legacy with the Lakers and in the NBA

Judging popularity in the NBA is difficult, but jersey sales seem to be one of the best indicators of how much a player is adored by fans. It stands to reason that he more popular their player, the more money they make on jerseys, clothes, and memorabilia. If that’s to be believed, than the staying power of now-retired Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant in terms of popularity is truly remarkable

The results of NBA.com reported Jersey sales by NBA player for the 2016 season was recently released. Kobe finished the season in second-place in overall sales, outselling LeBron James‘ Jersey. The results are telling for not only Kobe, but the Lakers as well.

Considering that Bryant shot a miserable 35.8 percent from the field (worst of his career) and wasn’t in the running for MVP in the 2015-16 NBA season, it is amazing that his jersey sales still ranked No. 2 behind the league’s MVP Stephen Curry. In January, Kobe had landed in the No. 3 spot in jersey sales moving up three spots from the previous season. He moved up to No. 2 over the last five months of the season.

Bryant’s done something right in his career to have so many loyal fans all over the nation and the world. The results are telling:

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PostPosted: Fri May 20, 2016 5:03 pm    Post subject:

Can Ben Simmons Force His Way to the Lakers?
by Hannah Kulik - lakersnation.com

Ben Simmons is missing in action. Little has been seen or heard from him since the LSU Tigers failed to qualify for the NCAA Tournament in March and then decided not to participate in the NIT. He was a no-show at the NBA Draft Combine and failed to appear for the NBA Lottery. Many of his peers, including chief rival Brandon Ingram, have been very visible of late, showcasing themselves and lobbying to improve their fortunes in the draft, but Simmons has remained out of sight.

If Simmons wants to be selected number one, it sure seems that he is going about it the wrong way. Which raises the question, does he want to be the first pick?

Simmons gave signs all year that he fully intends to be a member of the Los Angeles Lakers next season, and that no other option is fathomable. He was often photographed proudly wearing his Magic Johnson Lakers jersey with a big smile on this face. He famously proclaimed at one point, “You can catch me on the Lakers next season.” At the time, it was a bold and amusing statement, though it seemed a highly unlikely scenario. Simmons was going to be the top pick in the draft, and when the season started, the Lakers were expected to be improved over the team that finished with the fourth worst record the year before.

The Lakers did their part, crashing and burning in route to the worst record in franchise history and the second-worst record in the league. Then the Lottery Gods came through, and the Lakers earned the second pick in the draft. Only twice before in the past 20 years was the team with the second-worst record awarded the second selection.

Now, with everything falling neatly into place, there is only one obstacle standing in the way of Simmons joining the Lakers: The Philadelphia 76ers. All Simmons has to do is convince the 76ers to select Ingram. Can he do it?

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PostPosted: Fri May 20, 2016 5:05 pm    Post subject:

Lakers looking at Brandon Ingram and a change of luck
by Mark Heisler - ocregister.com

Now that we know where, or whether, the Lakers will draft, we can pose the big question at last:

Is this a good thing?

On one hand, they lucked out keeping their pick, which they had a 44 percent chance of losing, and drawing No. 2 on top of it.

On the other hand, there’s a distinct possibility they lucked out in the wrong draft.

Nevertheless, if the Class of 2017 is expected to be better, falling out of the top three would have meant conveying the pick to Philadelphia and having to wait another l-o-n-g season to get the blue-chip prospect they need so badly now. Without posting another 17-win season, they probably would have drafted lower than No. 2.

So, yes, the Lakers lucked out big-time.

To put this class in perspective, I asked an NBA GM how it would have gone if this class was eligible last spring.

Here’s what he came up with:

• 1. Minnesota: Karl-Anthony Towns. Duh.

• 2. Lakers: Kristaps Porzingis. They loved him but wanted a point guard, either for themselves or to send to Sacramento if the Kings would take D’Angelo Russell for DeMarcus Cousins, which they wouldn’t. Instead, Porzingis fell to the Knicks at No. 4 and showed what a huge upside he has. Russell became a Laker and showed how much growing up he has to do.

• 3. Philadelphia: Ben Simmons, LSU. The big Aussie power forward with the flashy handle but – oops! – no jump shot.

• 4. New York: Brandon Ingram, Duke. Blade-thin as he is at 6-8, 190 pounds, my GM ranks him higher than Jahlil Okafor – a major compliment since Jahlil could be a 20-point career scorer even if he isn’t much on defese.

As to who Laker fans should now be hoping drops to No. 2 ...

Simmons is now being called “the presumptive No. 1 pick,” but it’s not unanimous.

Players of his size (6-10, 240) and promise rarely come along with so little demonstrated shooting ability.

Despite his fabulous averages – 19 points, 11.8 rebounds, 4.8 assists – he was a reluctant shooter outside the lane.

Admirers say he was used badly by oft-criticized LSU coach Johnny Jones, who guided the team to a 19-14 finish and missed the NCAA Tournament.

Indeed, someone should have told Simmons to expand his shooting range, or get some.

Continued....
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PostPosted: Sat May 21, 2016 5:50 am    Post subject:

Lakers perfect offseason continues
by Gary Kester - lakersoutsiders.com

April 13, 2016.

The day that the Los Angeles Lakers and its adoring fanbase expected to shed many tears, watching Kobe Bryant don the purple and gold armor one final time, turned out to be by far the most exhilarating moment of a dreadful 17-win season, the worst in franchise history.

Bryant replaced tears of sorrow with those of joy, giving the NBA one last jaw-dropping performance, hanging 60 points on the same franchise that he hoisted four airballs against in crunch time of an elimination game as an 18-year-old rookie. The moment he launched the basketball to the other end of the court to Jordan Clarkson for the game-sealing dunk served as the final play of Bryant’s career, officially closing the book on a 20-year era filled with success.

You could not ask for a better ending from an individual standpoint for Bryant on that April night, as he led the comeback in his 60-point finale with yet another clutch performance. The defining moment, however, was his embrace of Larry Nance, Jr. followed by Clarkson, Julius Randle and D’Angelo Russell, almost as if to say, “It’s your turn, now.” The script was written perfectly for that night, and it has cascaded into the early offseason events.

Immediately following that magical night came the violent tug back to reality that was the possibility of Byron Scott returning for his third season as the head coach of the Lakers. Reports started to circulate that he may be given a chance to coach without the distraction of his former teammate’s farewell tour, but the rumors became nothing more. General manager Mitch Kupchak and vice president of basketball operations Jim Buss elected to part ways with their friend, seeking a fresh start with a new generation. With Scott and Bryant gone, the Lakers had officially cut ties from its past.

The dismantling of the Scott experiment absolutely had to be done after hitting what the team hopes is rock bottom. After watching the win total continue its plummet over the course of the last three seasons, it was not simply a matter of getting rid of the problem, but rather a massive shift in the mentality.

In the summer of 2014, Scott was considered for the vacant head coaching position along with a few other retreads that sullied the entire process, which lasted all the way into July, well after the beginning of free agency. Two years later, the Lakers wasted no time, as their mindset had taken a complete turn. This time around, they valued upside and potential over experience.

Enter Luke Walton, a 36-year-old assistant coach considered by many to be the most coveted coaching candidate on the market this summer. The former Laker player was sitting pretty as the lead assistant for the defending champion Golden State Warriors, filling in for half the season in Steve Kerr’s place en route to a historic 73-9 season. Walton could practically choose any available job he wanted to, and he chose the Lakers.

For the first time in years, the Lakers’ front office had a decisive plan and executed it to surprising perfection. Their vision for the future of the franchise aligned seamlessly with that of Walton’s. Los Angeles was ready to evolve and adapt to the modern style of basketball, emphasizing motion, floor spacing, ball movement and three-point shooting, and they found the perfect man for the job.

After ridding themselves of one of the worst NBA coaches in several years, the Lakers turned to one that is the complete opposite in so many regards. Instead of being held back, the young Lakers will now be empowered to be themselves with a coach that will cater to them and help them grow.

However, as exciting as landing a top coaching candidate was, it was just one step in a large process that is one of the biggest offseasons in the history of the Lakers.

Continued....


Last edited by lakersfreak on Sat May 21, 2016 5:52 am; edited 1 time in total
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PostPosted: Sat May 21, 2016 5:51 am    Post subject:

‘I’ve Learned So Many Things’ From Kobe Bryant
by Ryan Ward - lakersnation.com

During his rookie season with the Los Angeles Lakers, Jordan Clarkson had the unique privilege to learn from and playing alongside one of the greatest players in NBA history. Clarkson learned as much as possible while being Kobe Bryant’s teammate in Los Angeles and as a result has quickly become one of the best players on the Lakers roster.

Recently, Clarkson sat down for an interview with Michelle FlorCruz of Asia Society and talked about interacting with the Filipino-American community as well as playing with Bryant in the last two seasons of his NBA career. Clarkson emphasized the impact Bryant had on him during his time with the Lakers:

Great. Greatness. There’s really no other way to describe it. Everyone knows that Kobe is one of the best players of all time, and being able to learn the game through his eyes is one of the best experiences I’ve ever had in basketball. It was special being a rookie and stepping onto the court with him, but it was even more special being able to be a part of his final season. I’ve learned so many things from him that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

Back in 2014, after selecting Julius Randle with the seventh overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, the Lakers were eager to add another young player to the roster. Los Angeles purchased a second-round pick from the Washington Wizards and ultimately ended up with Clarkson with the 46th pick in the draft.

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PostPosted: Sat May 21, 2016 11:47 pm    Post subject:

Let's make the Lakers fun again
by Daman Rangoola - silverscreenandroll.com

A new coach, fun players, and future flexibility has me excited for the future.

I have always rejected the "title or bust" narrative that many fanbases carry, and I find that the Lakers fanbase can generally be the worst offender. This isn't to lower expectations of a historically great franchise, the organization operating under this notion is acceptable. What fans lose, however, is the enjoyment of the journey.

My favorite year to watch the Lakers play might have been the 2007-2008 NBA season. Watching the team develop from the Great Breakup of 2004 to where they got in the 2008 season was so damn fun. Fun. Remember that? It's so easy to forget that at the end of the day we're all watching these games to entertain ourselves, and it's easy to have forgotten that after watching this Lakers team "play basketball" for the last two years.

So, heading into this season, let's just have some damn fun. Luke Walton is the head coach! Yes, he will make some mistakes and there will be definite growing pains. Who cares, he's a huge upgrade over his predecessor, let's have fun!

Ben Simmons or Brandon Ingram? Who cares, either will be fun!

What if the Lakers strike out in free agency again? Who cares, the core is fun!

Will the Lakers win 30-40 games? Less? More? Who cares, let's have fun!

To me, this is the fan's sweet spot. It's easy to say that a team like the Raptors should be happy making the Conference Finals, and they should be - but there's still a hint of disappointment because that's not a fun ceiling to have. This season for the Lakers is all about growth, all about having fun, all about the young guys learning how to play and be professionals.

That's not to say there are zero expectations for this season. I expect a modern, fun, free-flowing offense to be put in place with Luke Walton and his staff to hold players accountable defensively. I expect to see D'Angelo Russell, Jordan Clarkson, and Julius Randle to show signs of growth next season both physically and mentally. I expect the team to show competitive spirit almost every night, not letting bad plays or losses discourage them too much. I expect the front office to maintain cap flexibility if they can't secure a legitimate star and not just use cap space for the sake of using cap space.

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PostPosted: Sat May 21, 2016 11:49 pm    Post subject:

Chad Ford Talks Brandon Ingram, Thon Maker
by Eric Yee - lakeshowlife.com

The 2016 NBA Draft is rapidly approaching and ESPN Insider and draft guru, Chad Ford, dished on a few prospects the Lakers are considering

There isn’t much argument when it comes to the first overall pick: it will either be Duke’s Brandon Ingram or LSU’s Ben Simmons. This means that the Lakers will be left with whoever isn’t chosen, and they aren’t complaining.

Both players opted to skip the NBA Draft Combine, but news surrounding Ben Simmons’ work on the basketball court has been relatively quiet and that could be telling of his position as first overall pick. Ingram on the other hand, has been working hard as documented by ESPN Insider, Chad Ford.

In one of his latest pieces, he revealed that Ingram is working out in White Plains, New York focusing on two things specifically, “improving his strength and proving his ability to be an elite shooter from the NBA 3-point line.”

This is reassuring for both the Philadelphia 76ers as well as the Lakers seeing as size and strength was the biggest concern critics had when discussing the Duke prospect.

Ingram says he has put on around seven pounds since he started strength training, upping his weight to 197 pounds. Obviously, teams are going to want to see him significantly heavier than that. But he has time.

He is one of the youngest players in the draft and has never done much in the weight room. While his frame is thin, the word from the training staff here was that Ingram is already surprisingly strong.


When discussing his three point efficiency, Ford brought up the fact that Ingram’s 68 percent free throw shooting might be a “better indicator of a player’s NBA 3-point shooting ability,” but also that he excelled in the shooting star drill.

All things considered, it wasn’t Ingram’s strength or shooting that was the brightest spot from the article, instead it was what Ford said about his demeanor and attitude.

Off the court, Ingram is quiet and determined. A number of GMs remarked that he impressed in his interviews at the draft combine and that all the background reports say he’s a thoughtful, coachable player who’s a good teammate off the court.

Ingram himself dished on the fact that his confidence is what has gotten him to where he is currently, and this confidence is not to be confused with cockiness.

I’m confident… I think confidence got me this far. I always thought I was the best player wherever I was, even with my build I always had confidence.

Confidence to do whatever I wanted regardless of what others said. Determination to make a basket or get a defensive stop. I’ve always been responsible, have put my teammates first and taken responsibility for my own actions.


Ingram has most often been compared to players like Kevin Durant and Anthony Davis, but based on his scouting reports and the answers he’s given it seems like Kawhi Leonard could also be in his cards.

Continued....
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PostPosted: Sat May 21, 2016 11:51 pm    Post subject:

NBA Options, Qualifying Offers Due Before July 2016
by Eric Pincus - basketballinsiders.com

Soon after the season, three Kings opted out of their contracts with Sacramento (Seth Curry, Quincy Acy and James Anderson) — the first of many decisions that need to be made league-wide before July.

All options need to be decided, both player and team, before the end of June. Franchises also have to make their decisions on qualifying offers, to make players restricted, before July.

The following is a list of teams and players with team options (TO), player options (PO) or pending qualifying offers (QO). If a team does not give a QO, that player will become an unrestricted free agent.

Los Angeles Lakers: Brandon Bass (PO), Jordan Clarkson (QO), Ryan Kelly (QO), Tarik Black (QO), Marcelo Huertas (QO)

Complete story....
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PostPosted: Sat May 21, 2016 11:53 pm    Post subject:

Brian Shaw to Rejoin Lakers’ Coaching Staff
by lakersoutsiders.com

Ever since Luke Walton was hired to replace Bryon Scott as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, speculation has run rampant about who Walton would add to his staff. The former Lakers forward has no coaching experience aside from a stint as interim head man for the Golden State Warriors, where he is still serving as Steve Kerr’s lead assistant until the end of the Dubs’ playoff run. Walton, however, has reportedly had a clear first choice to become his own right-hand man in Los Angeles, and is about to officially bring him on board according to the Los Angeles Times:

Brian Shaw and the Lakers are nearing a deal for him to become Luke Walton's lead assistant coach, according to several sources.
2:28 PM - 21 May 2016


Shaw should be a familiar name to Lakers fans, as he was an assistant to Phil Jackson during many of the Zen Master’s later seasons in Los Angeles — including the 2009 and 2010 championship runs — after finishing his playing career in purple and gold. His return to the role comes as no surprise, as several reports in recent weeks have stated that Walton was very interested in bringing Shaw on after forming a bond with him as a coach during his own playing days.

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PostPosted: Sun May 22, 2016 11:05 am    Post subject:

lakersfreak wrote:
Chad Ford Talks Brandon Ingram, Thon Maker
by Eric Yee - lakeshowlife.com

The 2016 NBA Draft is rapidly approaching and ESPN Insider and draft guru, Chad Ford, dished on a few prospects the Lakers are considering

There isn’t much argument when it comes to the first overall pick: it will either be Duke’s Brandon Ingram or LSU’s Ben Simmons. This means that the Lakers will be left with whoever isn’t chosen, and they aren’t complaining.

Both players opted to skip the NBA Draft Combine, but news surrounding Ben Simmons’ work on the basketball court has been relatively quiet and that could be telling of his position as first overall pick. Ingram on the other hand, has been working hard as documented by ESPN Insider, Chad Ford.

In one of his latest pieces, he revealed that Ingram is working out in White Plains, New York focusing on two things specifically, “improving his strength and proving his ability to be an elite shooter from the NBA 3-point line.”

This is reassuring for both the Philadelphia 76ers as well as the Lakers seeing as size and strength was the biggest concern critics had when discussing the Duke prospect.

Ingram says he has put on around seven pounds since he started strength training, upping his weight to 197 pounds. Obviously, teams are going to want to see him significantly heavier than that. But he has time.

He is one of the youngest players in the draft and has never done much in the weight room. While his frame is thin, the word from the training staff here was that Ingram is already surprisingly strong.


When discussing his three point efficiency, Ford brought up the fact that Ingram’s 68 percent free throw shooting might be a “better indicator of a player’s NBA 3-point shooting ability,” but also that he excelled in the shooting star drill.

All things considered, it wasn’t Ingram’s strength or shooting that was the brightest spot from the article, instead it was what Ford said about his demeanor and attitude.

Off the court, Ingram is quiet and determined. A number of GMs remarked that he impressed in his interviews at the draft combine and that all the background reports say he’s a thoughtful, coachable player who’s a good teammate off the court.

Ingram himself dished on the fact that his confidence is what has gotten him to where he is currently, and this confidence is not to be confused with cockiness.

I’m confident… I think confidence got me this far. I always thought I was the best player wherever I was, even with my build I always had confidence.

Confidence to do whatever I wanted regardless of what others said. Determination to make a basket or get a defensive stop. I’ve always been responsible, have put my teammates first and taken responsibility for my own actions.


Ingram has most often been compared to players like Kevin Durant and Anthony Davis, but based on his scouting reports and the answers he’s given it seems like Kawhi Leonard could also be in his cards.

Continued....



I'd really like to see us move up in the draft so that we're guaranteed Thon Maker with our late round first or early 2nd round pick. I was talking to a player from Australia that played with and against him that called him a 7'1" Kevin Durant. Very interesting prospect that we can tuck away and bring along slowly over the next 3-4 years.
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PostPosted: Mon May 23, 2016 6:59 am    Post subject:

Brandon Ingram could impact the Lakers both on and off the court
by Gary Kester - lakersoutsiders.com

Ben Simmons or Brandon Ingram?

This is the debate taking place amongst the front offices and fan bases of the Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Lakers, who hold the No. 1 and No. 2 picks in the 2016 NBA Draft, respectively.

For Philadelphia, there is an actual decision to be made, seeing as they have to choose between the consensus top-two prospects in this year’s draft class. Meanwhile, the Lakers can sit back and simply draft the player that the Sixers don’t, unless another prospect sneaks in and steals their attention, a possibility with the unlikeliest of odds.

Philly is reportedly leaning heavily towards taking Simmons, leaving the Lakers with Ingram, the 18-year-old product from Duke that impressed in his interview with general manager Mitch Kupchak and the rest of the Lakers’ entourage at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago last week.

Although Simmons is viewed by many as the best prospect in this year’s draft, Ingram offers a skill set that fits seamlessly in any offense at the small forward position. If the Sixers end up taking Simmons and the Lakers pick Ingram right after, what does it mean for Los Angeles? A major impact, both on and off the court.

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PostPosted: Mon May 23, 2016 7:00 am    Post subject:

5 Reasons The Lakers Should Draft Brandon Ingram
by Advith Sarikonda - lakeshowlife.com

The Los Angeles Lakers arguably earned their biggest “win” of the season snagging the number two overall pick but the question still remains, who should they take?

Despite a horrible season that saw the team win a mere 17 games, the Los Angeles Lakers are now heading into the draft with a ton of positive energy.

In addition to their lottery pick, the team will boast newly signed head coach, Luke Walton, roughly $60 million in salary cap space and a core of young players who are primed to show signs of development this upcoming season.

Naturally, who the team should draft with their number two overall pick will be a major talking point for the next month leading into draft night, June 23.

Though it is ultimately up to the Philadelphia 76ers to decide which of the two players (Brandon Ingram of Duke or Ben Simmons of LSU) will be taken first and accordingly be available to be drafted second, it is nonetheless worth discussing whom the Lakers should prefer.

In this post, we will discuss five reasons Brandon Ingram is the ideal fit and further, why he should be drafted by Tinseltown.

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PostPosted: Mon May 23, 2016 7:02 am    Post subject:

Could LA Take Zhou Qi At 32nd Overall?
by Eric Yee - lakeshowlife.com

As of late the Los Angeles Lakers have had plenty of success with their late draft picks, could Chinese prospect Zhou Qi be an option for them at 32nd overall?

With picks of Jordan Clarkson, Larry Nance Jr. and Anthony Brown late in the last two drafts, the Lakers have arguably had more success with their later picks than their top ones. But that should be no surprise considering the often unrealistic, “savior-esque” expectations placed on lottery picks.

While much of the news surrounding the Lakers’ upcoming draft has been about what they will ultimately do with their second overall pick, many have overlooked the fact that they also have the 32nd pick as well.

Thon Maker has been a name that has floated around when the late pick is mentioned but a new challenger has arrived in China’s 20 year old, 7’2 Zhou Qi.

Whenever a seven foot prospect comes out of China, the immediate comparison is obviously Yao Ming, but in a recent interview with NBC Sports, Qi made it known that he’s his own player entirely.

In regards to his relationship with Yao, Qi revealed,

We have been in touch… He shared a lot of his experience with me, mainly about training. I observed (what he did) when he came here back then, he told me of what he went through when he came, such as things to which to pay attention, and that the competition here can be tough. . .

I think I have my own style of play… Who am I like? I’m not like anyone. I’m like myself.


This draft, more so than others, is dominated by overseas prospects which is a great look for the NBA. Players like Dragan Bender of Croatia, Furkan Korkmaz of Turkey, Timothe Luwawu of Serbia, Juan Hernangomez of Spain and even Buddy Hield from the Bahamas all look to make their mark in the Association.

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PostPosted: Mon May 23, 2016 7:03 am    Post subject:

Marcelo Huertas says it would be “awesome” to return to Lakers next season
by Gary Kester - lakersoutsiders.com

While the Los Angeles Lakers have their focus dedicated to the 2016 NBA Draft, where they have the No. 2 and No. 32 overall picks, the NBA free agency period is slowly creeping up.

Starting July 1, teams can start meeting with free agents to discuss potential terms of a deal, although they cannot officially be signed until the moratorium period ends on July 8. As we saw last year with DeAndre Jordan, a player can agree on a deal with a team, then change his mind before having to sign it.

After finishing 17-65 this season, it would only make sense for the Lakers to make some major roster changes around their young core. Los Angeles is in a prime position to add talent through the draft, but they certainly hope to change their luck in free agency this year. But despite a sizable roster overhaul likely forthcoming, there are a few impending free agents that could still return to the Lakers next season.

Jordan Clarkson and Tarik Black will be restricted free agents this summer, and they will be the two most likely candidates to return to the team. Another player in the same boat is Marcelo Huertas. The soon-to-be 33-year-old had his moments with the Lakers last season, and many believe that in new head coach Luke Walton’s system that emphasizes ball movement, Huertas can prove to be a solid contributor off the bench.

Would Huertas be open to returning to Los Angeles next season as the backup to D’Angelo Russell? In a recent post on his Instagram account, he sounds to be open to the idea, at the very least (h/t Lakers Nation’s Trevor Lane).

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PostPosted: Mon May 23, 2016 7:04 am    Post subject:

Magic Johnson reiterates Kobe Bryant is the “greatest Laker of all time”
by Mark Medina - insidesocal.com

The platitudes for Kobe Bryant became non-stop both moments before and after he would cap his 20-year NBA career with a 60-point performance. With all the compliments he heard that night, nothing stood out more than what Magic Johnson said.

As he stood at center court, Johnson called Bryant “the greatest to the wear the purple and gold” before gushing about a few accomplishments. Johnson pointed out Bryant’s five NBA championships. Johnson touted Bryant’s third-place standing on the league’s all-time scoring list. Johnson highlighted Bryant’s endless ability to play through injuries.

It turns out Johnson did not just say those things in the heat of the moment. Johnson reported having the same sentiment during a recent appearance on ABC’s ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live.’ Johnson maintained that stance even when Kimmel brought up Johnson’s own five NBA rings with the Lakers.

“He did it his way with dominating the scoring and really putting the team on his back,” Johnson said. “I did it my way with my leadership and try to make sure that I put our team in a position to win. At the end of the day, who cares, where it’s him or I? He has represented this city and the Lakers organization as well as anybody could.”

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PostPosted: Mon May 23, 2016 7:06 am    Post subject:

D’Angelo Russell Already Looking Stronger
by Eric Yee - lakeshowlife.com

If you’ve ever worked out, you know that progress pics are a tricky thing to master, but doesn’t it look like Lakers’ guard, D’Angelo Russell, has put on some muscle since the season’s end?

In the month that the Los Angeles Lakers’ season has been over, there have been various reports of the Purple and Gold’s young guys hitting the gym, bright and early in order to get better for next season. Of those players, D’Angelo Russell made the biggest splash when he revealed he’d be training with Magic Johnson this summer.

Now, just a week ago, he also hinted that he’d be working out with basketball trainer, Robbie Haught, for the second straight year, in addition to training with strength coach Tim DiFrancesco of TD Athletes Edge who posted an Instagram video of Russell trapbar deadlifting what looks to be threes plates (270 pounds plus whatever the bar may weigh).

Prior to last season starting Russell posted Instagram pictures of himself looking skinny strong, but when season came along he looked more Hornet’s era Chris Paul than any era Andre Iguodala. I mean, just look at the picture above.

However, recently Josiah Thomas, a high school prospect, posted a picture of himself alongside a shirtless Russell with what looks to be a fuller chest and broader shoulders.

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PostPosted: Tue May 24, 2016 12:11 am    Post subject:

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