The 2021 NBA is officially upon us and the Los Angeles Lakers will pick 22nd overall — whether or not they’ll be picking for themselves or another team remains to be seen.
On Wednesday, Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype reported that the Lakers had discussed the No. 22 pick in trade discussions centered around Kyle Kuzma and Sacramento Kings guard Buddy Hield. Then, on Thursday, Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer reiterated that report and added that the talks had gained “real traction” within the last 24 hours.
Regardless of who has the pick by the time the Lakers are on the clock on Friday, Rob Pelinka will be the one to call it in.