Lakers Need to Trade 2024 1st-Round Draft Pick for Lauri Markkanen Amid NBA Rumors

Last Wednesday, The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie reported that the Los Angeles Lakers’ first-round pick “is another one many believe is ripe to be moved as the Lakers scour the trade market for immediate upgrades around LeBron James and Anthony Davis.” That pick currently sits at No. 17 overall.

Last Tuesday, Heavy’s Sean Deveney reported that an NBA general manager called Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen a “dream target” for the Lakers.

“There are a few teams that, when you look at it, he is going to be their dream target,” the GM said. “The Lakers, you get a guy like him with Anthony Davis, and that’s perfect for both guys. The Knicks would love to get hold of him. The Heat, again, put him with Bam (Adebayo) and that is the pair you want to build around, you can send Jimmy (Butler) wherever he wants.