L.A. Lakers Rumors: Team Chasing Troubled Star, And The Final Word On Whether Nick Young Will Be Traded Or Not
The L.A. Lakers are still trying desperately to make something happen in the 2015 NBA free agency season, but they may not be heading in the right direction. They’re currently one of a handful of teams looking at troubled guard Ty Lawson and possibly want to bring him into the fold. On another note, the Lakers have finally made a decision about trading Nick Young.
Sports Illustrated reported that the Lakers are one of a number of teams that have shown interest in acquiring Lawson via trade. This is even after Lawson’s second DUI arrest in the last six months, but there may be another obstacle in the way now.
ESPN has reported that the Denver Nuggets’ guard is entering a 30-day residential treatment program, and won’t face DUI charges in Colorado or California until completing it. Lawson’s lawyer, Harvey Steinberg, said his client enters treatment at Cliffside Malibu on Saturday.
“We will be handling the personal needs of the defendant. (The program will) ensure his sobriety.”
Lawson’s next court appearance in Denver was set for Aug. 20, but that will now change until his treatment program is completed.
This may make teams such as the Lakers, Detroit Pistons, Sacramento Kings, and Houston Rockets to rethink exploring a trade for Ty Lawson.
Now, the Lakers are also focused on the saga of Nick Young and what is going to happen with him. Rumors have swirled for months that he could end up being traded away, and the Lakers were actively exploring their options and interest in “Swaggy P.”
The 30-year-old brings a $5.2 million cap hit for the upcoming season, and his inconsistent play led to the Lakers looking for a trade partner. Well finally, the L.A. Lakers appear to have backed off on the trade talks for Nick Young, and will keep him.
Heard today Lakers have no plans to trade Nick Young. Called around seeking suitors so they could clear cap room quickly. Didn’t materialize
— Bill Oram (@billoram) July 14, 2015
A trade of Nick Young is still possible if the Lakers can get the right partner and pieces to make it worthwhile. For now though, Young is going to bring a lot of depth to the Lakers and the signing of Lou Williams helps considerably too.
Young will have a shot at winning playing time and getting his chance on the court, but he’s going to have to work for it. The Los Angeles Daily News says “there is competition at every position. Guys have to come every day and work and earn those minutes.”
Nick Young doesn’t appear to be going anywhere, and the L.A. Lakers will kind of have to put their interest in Ty Lawson on hold for now. Rumors are always flying, but the Lakers have their minds set in obvious directions and need them to work.
[Image via Getty Images]
