Lakers Deal Themselves Into The Draft; Trade With Magic

Los Angeles Lakers GM Rob Pelinka had set a goal of landing a good second-round pick in tonight's draft (yes, a modest goal), but today, it's mission accomplished. 

The Los Angeles Lakers acquired Orlando's pick at No. 35 for a future second-round pick and cash, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 23, 2022

The Lakers have sent a future second-round pick to the Orlando Magic for the No. 35 pick in tonight's NBA Draft. It's the second time in the last four drafts that the Lakers have secured a second-rounder from Orlando.

This also helps explain the several pre-draft workouts the Lakers have held for prospects in recent weeks, despite not having owned any picks in the draft. 

Feels particularly relevant now, but here's the guys the Lakers worked out or interviewed that are also in @Sam_Vecenie's top 100 prospects list pic.twitter.com/g2VI0ohN9B

— Jacob Rude (@JacobRude) June 23, 2022

The Lakers' scouting department has been able to find some gems around the edges in recent years, not the least of which were the undrafted finds of Alex Caruso and Austin Reaves. 

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