The Lakers made what will likely be their only move of the trade deadline on Thursday morning by trading Gabe Vincent and a 2032 second round pick to the Hawks for guard Luke Kennard, according to multiple reports.
Lakers fans are likely familiar with Kennard from his time with the Clippers as well as the playoff series against the Grizzlies a handful of years ago. He is a lights out 3-point shooter, connecting at a 49.7% clip this season. For his career, he’s a 44.2% shooter from range.
Kennard has earned a reputation as one of the league’s very best 3-point shooters. Over the last five seasons, he’s shot 46% from the 3-point line and averaged nearly five attempts per game. For a Lakers team that currently ranks 22nd in 3-point percentage and 23rd in 3-point attempts per game, Kennard is perhaps as good of a player as they could have landed in a deal like this.
By trading their 2032 second round pick, though, the Lakers are completely out of second round picks. While that will hurt them in potential trade negotiations moving forward, it doesn’t mean they won’t draft anyone in the second round in the future.
They’ve made a habit in recent years of buying second round picks once the draft comes around, which is one of the ways new ownership can flex its financial muscle as well. Last season, they made multiple trades with cash involved to move up and select Adou Thiero. It would not be a surprise if that becomes a trend.
From a salary standpoint, the Lakers actually shaved off $500,000 in the trade as well, opening up some room under the second apron, which they are hard-capped at. That would likely only matter in the signing of buyout players or filling their final roster spot.
This live story will be updated as more information becomes available.
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