The Los Angeles Lakers (43-39) salvaged their season by making a bunch of trades that addressed the team's lack of depth. Those trades enabled for the Lakers to end up being the 7th seed in the Western Conference.
The Lakers ended up going on a nice playoff run and making it to the Western Conference Finals before being swept by the Denver Nuggets. After realizing that the team needed even more depth, the team added Jaxson Hayes, Taurean Prince, Cam Reddish, Gabe Vincent, and Christian Wood via free agency.
Plus, Los Angeles did not mortgage away future picks like they have done in the past and ended up with two selections in this year's NBA Draft.
Round 1, Pick 17: Jalen Hood-Schifino - G - Indiana. 6'6", 213 lbs (13.5 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 3.7 apg, 33.3% 3-PT FG%).
Hood-Schifino would have went higher in the Draft if it wasn't for a lingering back issue that he had to deal with throughout last season with the Hoosiers. He has the ability to play at either guard position. Plus, he will be given time to develop from the bench.
Round 2, Pick 10: Maxwell Lewis - F - Pepperdine. 6'7", 195 lbs (17.1 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 2.8 apg, 34.8% 3-PT FG%).
Lewis took a big step last season by improving his mid-range game and his scoring ability. He will also be given time to develop off of the bench as well.
Overview: The Lakers now have the necessary depth in order to be a championship contender again. Grade: B.
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