Leading up to the 2023 NBA draft, there have been all sorts of trade rumors surrounding the Los Angeles Lakers and what they might do with either their No. 17 or No. 47 pick.
There has been plenty of speculation they could trade their No. 17 pick in exchange for a player who could help them right now, instead of counting on a rookie to step in and contribute right away. There has also been a rumor that L.A. is once again interested in Myles Turner and Buddy Hield of the Indiana Pacers.
On Thursday, the team made a trade with the Pacers, but not for either player. Rather, it has acquired the No. 40 pick in the draft for the No. 47 selection and cash.
The Lakers now own Nos. 17 and 40 on the draft board tonight. They made a move up a board that's believed to have some real second-round value. The Pacers hold four picks tonight, including Nos. 7, 26, 47 and 55. https://t.co/ixRKyUd3dI
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 22, 2023
The Lakers have a recent history of finding some gems in the second round of the draft. Just last year, they acquired the No. 35 pick from the Orlando Magic and used it to select Max Christie, a wing from Michigan State University who they believe can be a true contributor moving forward.