Lakers set to benefit from Pelicans’ NBA Draft decision
Apr 22, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; The Los Angeles Lakers logo at center court during game three of the 2023 NBA playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Lakers have a modest NBA Draft boost coming their way thanks to a decision made by the New Orleans Pelicans.
Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN confirmed Saturday that the Lakers will keep the No. 17 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. The Pelicans had the option to use that selection this season as part of the Anthony Davis trade, but have exercised their right to defer until 2025.
Pelicans have now filed official notice with the Lakers and league office that the 17th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft goes to LA, sources tell ESPN. Pelicans will take the Lakers first-round pick in 2025. https://t.co/DbrAYNuN00
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 1, 2024
This means the Pelicans will receive the Lakers’ first-round pick next year no matter where it falls in the draft. The Pelicans still have their own No. 21 pick in 2024 as well.
The Lakers were always likely to hold onto this pick. It will presumably spark a host of Bronny James rumors, though it remains hard to believe that any team would go that route in the first round when more immediate help might be available.