The Lakers' risky move in the NBA 2023 draft could leave them without the title

We are two days away from the 2023 NBA draft, and the Lakers are still thinking about what to do with their No. 17 draft pick. GM Rob Pelinka is considering trading it or risking it with a Center prospect.

It has been rumored that the Lakers are looking to trade Malik Beasley, Mo Bamba, and their No. 17 pick for a starter-caliber player for the next season.

But they are also looking to keep their pick, and according to the NBA insider Jovan Buha, the team could nab the Center prospect Dereck Lively II according to The Athletic's draft predictions.

For Buha, it would be a win, but in case the Lakers get the center, Lively, they could stop looking for a proven star that can maximize Anthony Davis so he can return to his natural PF position and, with this, risk the NBA title chance of winning it.

Chris Paul would be playing for the Clippers and not the Lakers

According to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, Chris Paul and the Clippers have a mutual interest in reuniting. For Windhorst, the Clippers and not the Lakers are the favorites to acquire CP3. "Wizards and Clippers already in discussions on potential CP3 trade package. Another team could become involved to help take on salary from Clippers in a three-team deal." Said, Windhorst.