Trade & FA 2023-24: Stein-Ingram Trade Inevitable| LAL Want Lebron Back On Any Terms

[Winter]

Holding onto the 2027 1st would have allowed us to obtain a quality starting PF this coming summer. 

This gets said quite a bit. I think it's BS frankly, especially in light of Luca's comments.

1. Great two-way players don't find their way into a trade every season where it's convenient for your team to make a play. 
2. We frequently get outbid. 

Just because we have a FRP, that doesn't translate into a contender-type player for our team. The player has to be the perfect complement. Plus, the market has to match your need and your ability to manage cap space. If you're waiting without a specific target, and you miss at upgrading your roster, what are you telling your best players?

I understand waiting if you have specific designs and know certain players might be available. But, in regards to Gafford, when Doncic says, "I've been hoping for a backup center for three years" you can't whine about slightly overspending to make the roster better with that player. We all knew our rebounding and rim protection was inadequate. That acquisition was badly needed. 

In regards to G. Williams, you know that position is a handicap. If Williams is a problem, and you have a chance to get an upgrade, do that for the sake of those players. Guys like Doncic have to be listened to. I don't think you can just say, "we were hoping for something better this summer". That sounds like a poor excuse more than a strategy.