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Paul George is one of the most talked-about superstars in recent weeks. Since the Indiana Pacers forward made it clear that he is not staying in Indianapolis, there have been many teams calling the Pacers' GM Kevin Pritchard and inquiring about a possible trade for the All-Star.
Most notably, it was the Lakers and the Cavaliers calling Pritchard about a possible deal. While the Cavs feel like they need more firepower and more elite defense against the juggernaut Warriors, the Lakers are inquiring due to the fact that George is actually from Los Angeles. George, per some reports, wants to become a Laker next summer, when he is an unrestricted free agent.
Can the Lakers now land Paul George by offering Thursday's No. 27 and 28 picks and either Julius Randle or Jordan Clarkson? They're trying.
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) June 20, 2017
The Pacers, however, refuse to give up their star for a reduced price. Per Marc Stein of ESPN, the Lakers' package included Julius Randle, Jordan Clarkson, the 28th pick in the upcoming Draft and the newly acquired Nets 27th pick. That package was rejected by the Pacers organization, as they continue to insist on the 2nd pick that the Lakers possess.
That pick might be too much for the Lakers to give up, as they have almost a guarantee that George will sign with them in 2018, and losing the ability to pick a good prospect in a very good draft might be too much. With that pick, the Lakers will most likely select Lonzo Ball.
George is also drawing interest from the Clippers, Rockets and Wizards, per Marc Stein.
As for the Lakers, earlier today they announced a trade sending former second pick D'Angelo Russell and Russian center Timofey Mozgov to the Nets, in exchange for the aforementioned 27th pick and former All-Star Brook Lopez. That move was presumably made to clear up cap space for the summer of 2018, when they have a realistic chance of signing two superstars. Reports say they will try to get both Paul George and Cavs superstar LeBron James.
