Celtics have reportedly been after that Lakers 2018 first round pick for a year
As the fall out from this week's shocking trade between Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers continues, fans are still scratching their head as to why Danny Ainge traded away the Celtics number one pick in the upcoming draft. They have been left wondering if Ainge pulled the trigger on the move because he didn't see superstar potential in Markelle Fultz? Or, perhaps he is eyeing up a move for someone like Paul George and needs more assets?
Well, according to CelticsHub's Brian Robb, 76ers' President of Basketball Operations Bryan Colangelo claims the Celtics have been after that 2018 Los Angeles Lakers first round pick for some time:
Colangelo: I've been talking with Mike Zarren about the 2018 Lakers pick for a year.— Brian Robb (@CelticsHub) June 19, 2017
Sounds like C's are pretty high on 18 draft class.
It's interesting that Ainge and his boardroom colleagues have been eyeing up that pick for a year at least, if true. The Celtics seem to feel that while Fultz is undoubtedly talented, the lottery picks coming into the league next year have much more upside and superstar potential.
As things stand, Michael Porter Jr. is the expected number one pick for the 2018 NBA Draft. It is some time away though, and things are subject to change, but Boston must be anxious to grab one of the top players from that class.
With the Brooklyn Nets trading away Brook Lopez for youngster D'Angelo Russell yesterday, it's likely that they'll find themselves near the bottom of the standings again next year. For the Celtics, that would mean two lottery picks should the Lakers miss out on adding any superstars to their inexperienced roster. Many fans are disappointed at missing out on Fultz, but patience is a virtue and the trade could well end up working in their favor this time next year.
Credit to Charles Krupa/AP Photo for the photo
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