I think its incredibly important for them to keep- especially in light of Russell's recent issues. If they get a top 2 pick and draft Ingram or Simmons that will be the best player the Lakers have drafted since Magic- hands down.
Oh, don't get me wrong, I don't want to lose that pick. I just don't think it's the end of the world if they don't keep it. I will say though, that if they don't, the FO will be under a lot more pressure to make something good happen in FA.
Clarkson is a restricted free agent. I dont really think you want to invest a lot of money in him- who knows- maybe i am wrong- but i wouldnt. Russell is going to have some trust issues with teammates for awhile...I like Randle but he is one guy.
I don't think they should give Clarkson a max deal, but he has definitely earned a nice raise. He has been the Lakers best, most consistent player over the past 2 seasons. He reminds me of Eddie Jones. If he has that type of career, he's worth some money.
I'm not worried about trust issues for Russell. The only place that players need to trust him is on the court and so far, that doesn't seem to be an issue. Plus, he seems genuine in his desire to try and fix it, so I doubt it will be much of an issue. I could see it possibly affecting this upcoming free agency because it's still going to be kind of fresh in peoples minds, but I doubt it will deter anyone who is truly interested. FA's may want to talk to Russell personally before signing just to get their own sense of who he is, which I'm sure the Lakers would be happy to do. Randle is a stud, but he needs to spend the off-season developing a reliable short range jumper and his touch around the rim.
Im saying if you could add Simmons or Ingram, or even the #3 pick picking the Kevin Love clone, or simply having it as a trade asset to bring in a player---- would give me a LOT more confidence as a free agent- than if the Lakers come up with Zippo in the lotto.....
56%....that is gonna be a crazy night.....
I agree. If they don't keep that pick, they are really going to have their work cut out for them in FA. They will need to go in with a clear basketball related plans (unlike when they botched interviewing LA ) and ready to answer any D'Angelo Russell related questions.