Now that the 2016 NBA Draft has officially come to a close, the Los Angeles Lakers can now get to work with their newly-coveted second overall pick, Brandon Ingram.
Although it was no secret Ingram was who the Lakers were gunning for all along, rumors were swirling as to whether they would keep the pick, or try to package it for another potential franchise player. Despite interest around the league in acquiring the second overall pick, general manager Mitch Kupchak feels comfortable holding on to the former Duke star, according to our own Serena Winters.
Mitch Kupchak said there were a lot of calls around the league about their No. 2 pick but "nothing that piqued our interest."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) June 24, 2016
With the draft over, Kupchak and company can now begin preparations with free agency in full swing and the NBA Summer League right around the corner. Ingram comes in with the potential to be an immediate starter, taking over a position that last year was held by Kobe Bryant. However, the addition of Ingram maintains the Lakers as one of, if not the youngest team in the league as he now joins the likes of other young, talented players such as D’Angelo Russell, Julius Randle, and Larry Nance Jr.
The Lakers can now set their sights on signing a couple of key veterans in a free agency. Despite their potential, this current Lakers roster still has plenty to prove if Los Angeles is going to attract any big-time free agents. As the rumors continue to float around regarding potential trades with the Lakers, for now, it is safe to assume that Ingram is here to stay.