On Thursday, the NBA trade deadline passed and the Los Angeles Lakers did not make a move. With no moves made, the franchise is concentrating on their draft picks and cap space to pursue big-name free agents this summer.
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After the trade deadline, general manager Mitch Kupchak spoke to the media before the Lakers take on the Brooklyn Nets on Friday. While short-term moves could have been made, Kupchak believes the Lakers need to build the right way according to Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters:
Kupchak said doing that wouldn't fit into "doing things the right way." Lakers plan is to "start a new run," one that will last many years.
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) February 20, 2015
In addition, Kupchak says the Lakers cannot jeopardize the next five to seven years just to try to win during Kobe Bryant’s final contract year:
Mitch Kupchak says Lakers will not "jeopardize" Lakers future to pay old veterans a lot of $$$ w/ the hope of winning one more year for Kobe
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) February 20, 2015
With the Lakers missing the playoffs for the second consecutive season, patience is wearing thin. While most would like to see the Lakers be competitive in what will likely be Kobe’s final season, the Lakers are focused on rebuilding a team that can compete for numerous seasons.
With 29 games remaining in the 2014-15 NBA season, the Lakers will look to keep their top-five pick in a draft that will likely feature Jahlil Okafor from Duke. Depending on who Los Angeles drafts will dictate if they pursue a frontcourt or backcourt player first in free agency.
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