SAD NEWS:LAKERS’ FIRST-ROUND PICK DEFERRED.
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, the New Orleans Pelicans have opted to defer the Los Angeles Lakers’ first-round draft pick until 2025. The decision, which was announced on June 1, means that the Lakers will retain their 17th overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft.
The pick was part of the blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Lakers in 2019. As part of the deal, the Pelicans received multiple draft picks, including the Lakers’ first-round pick in either 2024 or 2025.
By deferring the pick, the Pelicans are essentially betting on the Lakers’ continued success in the coming season. If the Lakers make the playoffs and have a higher pick in 2025, the Pelicans will benefit from a more valuable selection. However, if the Lakers struggle and have a lower pick, the Pelicans may end up regretting their decision.
The move has significant implications for both teams. For the Lakers, retaining their 2024 first-round pick gives them the opportunity to add another young talent to their roster as they look to build around Davis and LeBron James. Meanwhile, the Pelicans will have to wait another year to capitalize on the draft pick, but could potentially end up with a more valuable selection in 2025.
The decision also has a ripple effect on the rest of the NBA draft landscape. With the Lakers retaining their pick, other teams may need to adjust their draft strategies, potentially leading to a more unpredictable and exciting draft night.
Pelicans’ general manager David Griffin explained the reasoning behind the decision, stating that “after careful consideration, we believe that deferring the pick until 2025 gives us the best opportunity to build a sustainable winner in New Orleans.”
Lakers’ general manager Rob Pelinka also weighed in on the decision, saying that “we’re thrilled to retain our 2024 first-round pick and look forward to adding another talented player to our roster.”
As the NBA draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Pelicans and Lakers to see how this move plays out. Will the Pelicans’ gamble pay off, or will they end up regretting their decision? Only time will tell.
