[DJ's left nut]

Why are people acting like a pick swap has ANY value for the Hornets?

I guess the idea is that they could trade the rights to swap to someone that DOESN'T suck. But strictly as an asset to Charlotte - what are the odds that the Hornets are swapping pick spots with the Lakers in 2030? 10%? 5? I mean c'mon - the Hornets ALWAYS suck. The Lakers...don't. Even if Williams is an injury case, he's off the cap for the 2026 FA derby.

There's just no way that is going to mean anything for them. The 2031 pick MIGHT have some shot at being in the mid-teens where they could, if they're lucky, get someone as good as Knecht. And Knecht, who I REALLY like, is still just going to be a very good role player.

So the Lakers gave up what probably amounts to a couple of 6th/7th man types for a 23 year old starting C with genuinely elite physical tools.

And there are folks considering it an overpay? Why? The only real risk is the injury concern and if those come to fruition, you just move on from him. And you've maintained some flexibility should another deal come along today for Rui (who I still think is an awkward fit).

Now they have a playoff starting 5 of

Williams
DFS
Luka
James
Reaves

With Rui as your 6th man and offensive leader off the bench. You still have Vanderbilt and Vincent off the bench as well as matchup specific pieces.

I don't think that's better than the Celtics but now it COULD beat anyone in the West. They'll have to come together quickly and play damn well to get past Oklahoma City, but there's still the "is OKC actually ready to win a championship?" question.

This is a damn good move and makes the Lakers a legit possibility to win a championship, even if you don't quite put them at 'contender' status due to how good Boston and OKC have been to this point.