Silver Screen and Roll - Who will the Lakers take in the 2021 NBA Draft?A Blog devoted to Lakers News, Commentary, and Analysishttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/13178/silver-fave.jpg2021-07-29T08:02:48-07:00http://www.silverscreenandroll.com/rss/stream/223262272021-07-29T08:02:48-07:002021-07-29T08:02:48-07:00Tracker: Everyone we know the Lakers have looked at in the 2021 NBA Draft
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<img alt="Tennessee v Oregon State" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/pDlpiEifABE86-tYIW8gLGFEs50=/0x2:4860x3242/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69618503/1307992462.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Lakers have cast a wide net with their 2021 NBA Draft preparations.</p> <p id="QqXM5V">With the 2021 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA Draft</a> just a week away on July 29, the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a> don’t have much longer to decide who they’re going to take with their first-round pick at No. 22. The good news is that the team has wasted no time trying to figure it out. </p>
<p id="3JKo4u">For much of the last month, the Lakers have been working out scores of prospects publicly, and are surely looking at even more privately. The team also evaluated players at the 2021 Draft Combine, where they also interviewed players, in addition to all their normal in-season scouting work (albeit doing so remotely this year). But suffice to say, they’re leaving pretty much no stone unturned as they decide whether or not they think they can find a player that can help them, or opt to trade their pick to another team in search of a more established player.</p>
<p id="6qHxvp">Below, we will be keeping a running list of every player the Lakers have been connected to, where they played prior to the NBA, and whether the Lakers have been linked to them by working them out, interviewing them, or just being rumored to have interest, as well as if SB Nation Draft Expert Ricky O’Donnell has a prospect in <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba/2021/7/20/22557675/nba-draft-2021-player-rankings-big-board-best-available">his top-30 players in this class</a>. </p>
<p id="z3cPm6">As we all try to figure out the pool of players the Lakers might be selecting from, bookmark this page and check back as the list continues to evolve over the next week. </p>
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<ul>
<li id="XO6FFc">Alan Griffin - Syracuse (Workout)</li>
<li id="mufEG8">Anthony Tarke - Coppin State (Workout)</li>
<li id="nfTGfc">Austin Reaves - Oklahoma (Workout)</li>
<li id="L4kr6h">Ayo Dosunmu - Illinois (Workout)</li>
<li id="NZ4u8U">Balsa Koprivica - <a href="https://www.tomahawknation.com/">Florida State</a> (Workout)</li>
<li id="NGYO4j">Bones Hyland - VCU (<a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/10/22571644/2021-nba-draft-bones-hyland-lakers-workout-video-interview-nickname">Workout</a>, No. 22 ranked prospect)</li>
<li id="McKG4J">Brandon Boston Jr. - Kentucky (Workout)</li>
<li id="dXk0fC">Carlik Jones - Louisville (Workout)</li>
<li id="p1od3S">Chaundee Brown Jr. - Michigan (Workout)</li>
<li id="lrUlIH">Chris Duarte - Oregon (<a href="https://www.sbnation.com/e/22352080">Rumored Promise</a>, No. 24 ranked prospect)</li>
<li id="ehEpGo">Cody Riley - <a href="https://www.bruinsnation.com">UCLA</a> (Workout)</li>
<li id="Jmmis0">Corey Kispert - Gonzaga (<a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/6/24/22549868/2021-nba-draft-combine-lakers-interview-corey-kispert-trey-murphy-iii-neemias-queta">Combine Interview</a>, No. 19 ranked prospect)</li>
<li id="mygFkz">DJ Funderburk - <a href="https://www.backingthepack.com/">NC State</a> (Workout)</li>
<li id="ZhcW1F">D’Mitrik Trice - Wisconsin (Workout)</li>
<li id="Ln3iwp">Eugene Omoruyi - Oregon (Workout)</li>
<li id="MDavUF">Feron Hunt - SMU (Workout)</li>
<li id="gK9t0H">Giorgi Bezhanishvili - Illinois (<a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/5/22564117/2021-nba-draft-rumors-lakers-work-out-giorgi-bezhanishvili-illinois">Workout</a>)</li>
<li id="NeGOCO">Isaiah Jackson - Kentucky (The Lakers <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba/2021/7/20/22557675/nba-draft-2021-player-rankings-big-board-best-available">reportedly really like him</a>, No. 30 ranked prospect)</li>
<li id="xN2dXl">Isaiah Todd - G League Ignite (<a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/16/22580562/2021-nba-draft-rumors-lakers-workout-isaiah-todd-g-league-ignite-matthew-hurt-duke">Workout</a>)</li>
<li id="VBBudu">Jaden Springer - Tennessee (Workout and <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/6/27/22550783/lakers-interview-jaden-springer-2021-nba-draft-combine-schedule-workout-matthew-hurt">Combine Interview</a>, No. 11 ranked prospect)</li>
<li id="bCDA1Q">JaQuori McLaughlin - UCSB (Workout)</li>
<li id="PfCLe6">Jason Preston - Ohio (<a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/7/22567638/lakers-2021-nba-draft-workout-report-jason-preston-declares-ohio-university">Workout</a>)</li>
<li id="c4LRzQ">Javonte Smart - <a href="https://www.andthevalleyshook.com">LSU</a> (Worktout)</li>
<li id="A9zfXP">Jayvon Graves - Buffalo (Workout)</li>
<li id="Z2arxQ">Jeremiah Tilmon - Missouri (Workout)</li>
<li id="6p98qv">Jordan Schakel - San Diego State (Workout)</li>
<li id="oOy49O">Jose Alvarado - Georgia Tech (Workout)</li>
<li id="0D9aLW">Josh Christopher - Arizona State (Workout, No. 29 ranked prospect)</li>
<li id="A7xKb2">Joshua Primo - Alabama (Workout)</li>
<li id="ook70f">Kai Jones - Texas (<a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/6/24/22549026/nba-free-agency-rumors-spencer-dinwiddie-wants-play-los-angeles-lakers-clippers">Interview</a>, No. 15 ranked prospect)</li>
<li id="nKFiPw">LJ Figueroa - Oregon (Workout)</li>
<li id="Zkxk6q">Mac McClung - <a href="https://www.vivathematadors.com">Texas Tech</a> (Workout)</li>
<li id="XyMx20">MaCio Teague - Baylor (Workout)</li>
<li id="OTmZyB">Marcus Zegarowski - Creighton (Workout)</li>
<li id="BVn5Xh">Matt Coleman III - Texas (Workout)</li>
<li id="8V0xDM">Matthew Hurt - Duke (<a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/16/22580562/2021-nba-draft-rumors-lakers-workout-isaiah-todd-g-league-ignite-matthew-hurt-duke">Workout</a>)</li>
<li id="ib2uqx">Miles McBride - West Virginia (Workout, No. 23 ranked prospect)</li>
<li id="5CZaA7">Mitch Ballock - Creighton (Workout)</li>
<li id="ysYeHm">Moses Wright - Georgia Tech (Workout)</li>
<li id="PV1vHO">Neemius Queta - Utah State (<a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/6/24/22549868/2021-nba-draft-combine-lakers-interview-corey-kispert-trey-murphy-iii-neemias-queta">Combine Interview</a> and draft workout)</li>
<li id="NnDCD4">Oscar Da Silva - Stanford (Workout)</li>
<li id="mpbvtA">Sandro Mamukelashvili - Seton Hall (Workout)</li>
<li id="j9nD3Y">Spencer Littleson - Toledo (Workout)</li>
<li id="HE2fJ7">Trey Murphy III - Virginia (<a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/10/22571535/2021-nba-draft-trey-murphy-iii-lakers-workout-all-star-potential">Workout</a> and <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/6/24/22549868/2021-nba-draft-combine-lakers-interview-corey-kispert-trey-murphy-iii-neemias-queta">Combine Interview</a>, No. 27 ranked prospect)</li>
</ul>
<p id="rsYzN5"><em><strong>For more </strong></em><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/los-angeles-lakers"><em><strong>Lakers</strong></em></a><em><strong> talk, subscribe to the Silver Screen and Roll podcast feed on </strong></em><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fpodcast%2Fsilver-screen-roll-for-los-angeles-lakers-fans%2Fid1439479212%3Fmt%3D2" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><em><strong>iTunes</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2XJK0kM4pR2uUy7WDmAybb?si=WZwWClvKRZeHeSTnuxdYrw"><em><strong>Spotify</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/vox/silver-screen-and-rollcast"><em><strong>Stitcher</strong></em></a><em><strong> or </strong></em><a href="https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5wb2RjYXN0bWlycm9yLmNvbS9zaWx2ZXItc2NyZWVuLXJvbGw%3D"><em><strong>Google Podcasts</strong></em></a><em><strong>. You can follow Harrison on Twitter at </strong></em><a href="https://twitter.com/hmfaigen"><em><strong>@hmfaigen</strong></em></a><em><strong>.</strong></em></p>
https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/22/22587124/2021-nba-draft-date-lakers-workout-picks-22-jaden-springer-trey-murphy-bones-hylandHarrison Faigen2021-07-28T23:43:46-07:002021-07-28T23:43:46-07:002021 NBA Draft: How to watch and open thread
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<img alt="2020 NBA Draft" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/5Lbjxrwtm9f3XKCWg1y5jS9pxys=/0x0:3600x2400/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69648936/1229676820.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Hang out and watch what the Lakers do at the 2021 NBA Draft.</p> <p id="hSbOYy">The 2021 NBA is officially upon us and the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a> will pick 22nd overall — whether or not they’ll be picking for themselves or another team remains to be seen.</p>
<p id="2D8bxX">On Wednesday, Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype reported that the Lakers had discussed the No. 22 pick in trade discussions centered around Kyle Kuzma and <a href="https://www.sactownroyalty.com/">Sacramento Kings</a> guard Buddy Hield. Then, on Thursday, <a href="https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/7/28/22598900/lebron-james-los-angeles-lakers-buddy-hield-trade">Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer</a> reiterated that report and added that the talks had gained “real traction” within the last 24 hours.</p>
<p id="4ms4BB">Regardless of who has the pick by the time the Lakers are on the clock on Friday, Rob Pelinka will be the one to call it in. Why? Because the Lakers can’t trade their first-round pick until 30 days after the player they select signs their rookie contract. <a href="https://www.hoopsrumors.com/2019/04/hoops-rumors-glossary-ted-stepien-rule-2.html">It’s all very confusing</a>, I know.</p>
<p id="gzazPj">In the event Lakers do trade the No. 22 pick — for Hield or someone else — there’s still a chance that they’ll make a selection on Friday. Not only can they trade for a pick, <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/27/22596608/lakers-trade-rumors-kyle-kuzma-no-22-pick-pacers-13-move-up-draft">something they’ve reportedly expressed interest in</a>, but they can buy a pick in the second round, the latter of which got them the rights to Talen Horton-Tucker, the No. 46 pick, in 2019.</p>
<p id="AGpX78">Here’s everything else you need to know about the 2021 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA Draft</a>:</p>
<p id="2m0d9g"><strong>When:</strong> Thursday, August 29, at 5 p.m. PT.</p>
<p id="OYlrvU"><strong>Where:</strong> Barclays Center, New York.</p>
<p id="JXuXuA"><strong>TV Channels:</strong> ABC (first round), ESPN (both rounds).</p>
<p id="Ealt3w"><strong>Live Stream:</strong> Watch ESPN app.</p>
<p id="IV5COp">Friday could end up being just another draft day for the Lakers, but Pelinka and Co. seem like they’re cooking something up behind the scenes. I guess we’ll find out soon enough.</p>
<p id="6a4zgE"><em><strong>For more </strong></em><a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/"><em><strong>Lakers</strong></em></a><em><strong> talk, subscribe to the Silver Screen and Roll podcast feed on </strong></em><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/silver-screen-roll-for-los-angeles-lakers-fans/id1439479212?mt=2&xcust=___sb__p_22348865__t_w__r_silverscreenandroll.com_" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><em><strong>iTunes</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2XJK0kM4pR2uUy7WDmAybb?si=WZwWClvKRZeHeSTnuxdYrw"><em><strong>Spotify</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/vox/silver-screen-and-rollcast"><em><strong>Stitcher</strong></em></a><em><strong> or </strong></em><a href="https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5wb2RjYXN0bWlycm9yLmNvbS9zaWx2ZXItc2NyZWVuLXJvbGw%3D"><em><strong>Google Podcasts</strong></em></a><em><strong>. You can follow this author on Twitter at </strong></em><a href="https://twitter.com/RadRivas"><em><strong>@RadRivas</strong></em></a><em><strong>.</strong></em></p>
https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/28/22599432/2021-nba-draft-how-to-watch-and-open-thread-lakers-picksChristian Rivas2021-07-28T22:28:35-07:002021-07-28T22:28:35-07:00Lakers reportedly ‘really like’ Kentucky’s Isaiah Jackson, would need to trade up in draft to select him
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<img alt="Auburn v Kentucky" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/JU75SFMGHEvt199UBHSPzW0IX7g=/0x0:3552x2368/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69648879/1301984119.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>While Isaiah Jackson makes a lot of sense for the Lakers, it will be really tough for them to move up in the draft for him.</p> <p id="WCz5nK">The reports surrounding the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Lakers</a> and Thursday’s <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA draft</a> have largely <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/21/22588039/2021-nba-draft-rumors-lakers-promise-chris-duarte">centered on Oregon’s Chris Duarte</a> and <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/27/22596331/lakers-rumors-2021-nba-draft-chris-duarte-oregon-trade-promise">their desire to move up for him</a>. However, that may not be the only player the team has eyes for in the first round.</p>
<p id="dWSaEE">The Lakers’ search for a center last season never netted truly positive results, including <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/26/22589726/lakers-season-review-andre-drummond-free-agency-contract-2021-buyout">a disappointing half-season from Andre Drummond</a>. A search in the draft, though, could net different results. <a href="https://www.latimes.com./sports/lakers/story/2021-07-28/lakers-2021-draft-seek-guard-or-big-man">According to Brad Turner of LA Times</a>, the Lakers are high on center prospect Isaiah Jackson out of Kentucky:</p>
<blockquote><p id="z5d1ND">Several NBA scouts said the Lakers really like Isaiah Jackson, a 6-foot-10 forward-center out of Kentucky. But the scouts said Jackson is projected to go before the Lakers pick, perhaps as high as No. 14 to the <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com">Golden State Warriors</a>.</p></blockquote>
<p id="oEq1mg">Last season at Kentucky, Jackson averaged 8.4 points per game on 54.0% field goal shooting, in addition 6.6 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game. His athleticism was one of his biggest strengths, showcased by his eight blocks against Kansas and his seven blocks against Alabama during the season.</p>
<p id="rx217v">Jackson is a raw player that would require development, but he also could produce in a specific role for the Lakers. Like the team's success with Dwight Howard and JaVale McGee, Jackson could be an above-the-rim player offensively and a rim protector defensively. Even Damian Jones, a player who received multiple 10-day contracts, <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/15/22573201/lakers-season-review-damian-jones-greatest-player-all-time-sacramento-kings">excelled in that role</a>.</p>
<p id="CWN6G6">However, as Haynes notes, the Lakers would need to trade to move up to get Jackson, who is expected to be selected in the middle of the draft, ahead of L.A.’s No. 22 pick. Finding a trade partner might not happen until draft night as the picks unfold.</p>
<p id="0ne15n">But if the Lakers do land Jackson on Thursday, he is the type of player they could have success with and would have under team control for many years to come.</p>
<p id="KLVv0N"><em><strong>For more </strong></em><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/los-angeles-lakers"><em><strong>Lakers</strong></em></a><em><strong> talk, subscribe to the Silver Screen and Roll podcast feed on </strong></em><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fpodcast%2Fsilver-screen-roll-for-los-angeles-lakers-fans%2Fid1439479212%3Fmt%3D2" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><em><strong>iTunes</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2XJK0kM4pR2uUy7WDmAybb?si=WZwWClvKRZeHeSTnuxdYrw"><em><strong>Spotify</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/vox/silver-screen-and-rollcast"><em><strong>Stitcher</strong></em></a><em><strong> or </strong></em><a href="https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5wb2RjYXN0bWlycm9yLmNvbS9zaWx2ZXItc2NyZWVuLXJvbGw%3D"><em><strong>Google Podcasts</strong></em></a><em><strong>. You can follow Jacob on Twitter at </strong></em><a href="https://twitter.com/JacobRude"><em><strong>@JacobRude</strong></em></a><em><strong>.</strong></em></p>
https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/28/22599355/lakers-really-like-isaiah-jackson-2021-nba-draft-rumorsJacob Rude2021-07-27T13:29:14-07:002021-07-27T13:29:14-07:00Lakers offered Kyle Kuzma, No. 22 pick to Pacers for No. 13 pick
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<img alt="Los Angeles Lakers v Indiana Pacers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zLYaa3j_ENaNJpFK_oRrpfaDCew=/0x0:3600x2400/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69640736/1228263653.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Lakers’ goals of moving up in the 2021 NBA Draft and shopping Kyle Kuzma around the league may not be mutually exclusive.</p> <p id="oVaP26">As the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a> continued to shop Kyle Kuzma around to <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/25/22593217/nba-trade-rumors-kentavious-caldwell-pope-kyle-kuzma-lakers-kings-deal-every-team-contracts">just about every team in the league</a> and <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/27/22596331/lakers-rumors-2021-nba-draft-chris-duarte-oregon-trade-promise">look to move up</a> in the 2021 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA Draft</a>, we’ve learned that there is at least one team they called with both goals in mind: The <a href="https://www.indycornrows.com">Indiana Pacers</a>.</p>
<p id="JFHgPn"><a href="https://hoopshype.com/lists/nba-draft-trade-talks-kyle-kuzma-montrezl-harrell-gary-trent-jr-tyus-jones/">Michael Scotto of HoopsHype</a> reported that the Pacers declined the Lakers’ trade advances, but we now have a better sense of what Rob Pelinka and the front office might be trying to do:</p>
<blockquote><p id="LhE8Dk">Kuzma and the Lakers’ 22nd pick was also discussed with the Pacers. The talks centered around acquiring the 13th overall pick from Indiana and needed salary filler but was turned down, HoopsHype has learned.</p></blockquote>
<p id="Q7bUCV">J. Michael of the Indy Star confirmed the report:</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">This is accurate. TJ Warren is healthy so they declined Kuz. Lakers have been hustling to jump into the lottery to get ahead of the Wizards <a href="https://t.co/ozto9dFRAZ">https://t.co/ozto9dFRAZ</a></p>— J. Michael (@ThisIsJMichael) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsJMichael/status/1420097954937982986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2021</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p id="bFi2CY">And we already have some idea of who the Lakers might be trying to get ahead of the Wizards to select: Chris Duarte, who <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/21/22588039/2021-nba-draft-rumors-lakers-promise-chris-duarte">other teams in the NBA think the Lakers have given a promise to.</a> Whether that promise part is true or not, all of this reporting does paint the picture of the Lakers as very interested in moving up to draft the Oregon sharpshooter, even if this specific deal didn’t get done.</p>
<p id="yjAYMv">As for Kuzma, this is obviously not a tremendous endorsement of his value around the league, but it’s also not shocking that the Pacers weren’t willing to trade back nine spots in what is generally considered a pretty good draft class for the privilege of paying him for the next three years. Kuzma probably has value on the market, but not that kind of draft value. </p>
<p id="iZA6A0">This is likely far from the last team we’ll see Kuzma shopped to this summer, but if this deal didn’t get it done, we can probably cross the Pacers off the list of potential trade partners for him. Luckily for the Lakers, they don’t have to move him, but if they want to, they still have a few days to wheel and deal before Thursday’s draft and free agency next week.</p>
<p id="Uu2qwy"><em><strong>This article has been updated to reflect that it is not certain who the Pacers’ “salary filler” in this reported deal was. An earlier version mistakenly assumed that TJ Warren was in the proposed deal because his salary matched with Kuzma, but that is unknown at this time.</strong></em></p>
https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/27/22596608/lakers-trade-rumors-kyle-kuzma-no-22-pick-pacers-13-move-up-draftHarrison Faigen2021-07-27T12:14:15-07:002021-07-27T12:14:15-07:00Lakers have reportedly discussed trading up in 2021 NBA draft to select Chris Duarte of Oregon
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<img alt="Oregon v Southern California" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/QyxIvvoIKRNZcZkGijAPPPyweHU=/0x0:4624x3083/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69640443/1309769330.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>At the 2021 NBA Draft nears, Chris Duarte appears to be the main target for the Lakers as they aim to trade up for him</p> <p id="QZhX8q">As the 2021 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA draft</a> nears on Thursday, the flow of trade rumors is constant and rapid, with every team in the league involved in some way or another. The <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Lakers</a> have been oft-mentioned in those rumors, and are reportedly interested in moving from the No. 22 pick, though which direction they want to go remains unclear.</p>
<p id="yZTLAo"><a href="https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2946272-2021-nba-draft-buzz-a-swing-for-the-no-1-pick-lottery-movers-and-shakers">Jonathan Wasserman of Bleacher Report</a> reported on Tuesday morning that the Lakers have their eyes on Oregon sharpshooter Chris Duarte, and are attempting to move up in the draft to acquire him.</p>
<blockquote><p id="5Ei9Ln">The demand for Oregon’s Chris Duarte has risen, and there is a good chance he doesn’t make it past the <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com">Washington Wizards</a> at No. 15. He recently worked out for the <a href="https://www.indycornrows.com">Indiana Pacers</a> and <a href="https://www.postingandtoasting.com">New York Knicks</a>. I reported the <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com">Golden State Warriors</a> brought him back for a second workout this past weekend. The Los Angeles Lakers have also shown interest in Duarte and have made calls to try to move up. The 24-year-old is considered a surefire rookie contributor with valuable shooting skills and defensive toughness.</p></blockquote>
<p id="pSOXhs"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F2730160%2F2021%2F07%2F27%2Flive-updating-nba-mock-draft-sources-say-cade-cunningham-likely-to-pistons-at-no-1-plus-more-trade-news%2F%3Fsource%3Dtwitterhq&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.silverscreenandroll.com%2F2021%2F7%2F27%2F22596331%2Flakers-rumors-2021-nba-draft-chris-duarte-oregon-trade-promise" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Sam Vecenie of The Athletic</a> offered a similar report on Tuesday as well, but added that the Lakers’ lack of assets will make it difficult to move up in the draft.</p>
<blockquote><p id="4mpoAJ">Duarte is thought to be the guy the Lakers want to fall. I’ve heard some sources discuss that they’ve looked into moving up the board. But it might be tough to do that given their current asset cache.</p></blockquote>
<p id="djvfFK">Duarte has been oft-linked to the purple and gold during the pre-draft process, with <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/21/22588039/2021-nba-draft-rumors-lakers-promise-chris-duarte">teams even believing the Lakers had given him a promise to draft him</a>. In the week since that report, Duarte’s stock has continued to rise dramatically, as he’s gone from a player in the Lakers’ range with the No. 22 pick to a borderline lottery selection, thus leading to the attempts by Los Angeles to move up in the draft.</p>
<p id="5YATc2">Given his skill set, it’s not a surprise Duarte has been targeted by the Lakers. Last season, he shot 42.4% from the 3-point line on six attempts per game. Per Synergy, he ranked in the 94th percentile in spot-up possessions, the 98th percentile on unguarded catch-and-shoot opportunities and the 94th percentile on jump shots off the dribble. After the Lakers bowed out of the playoffs in the first round while shooting 29.9% from the 3-point line, a player with Duarte’s shooting ability makes sense for the team.</p>
<aside id="WeoMSI"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"2021 NBA Draft Prospect Profiles: Chris Duarte","url":"https://www.grizzlybearblues.com/2021/7/12/22565483/2021-nba-draft-prospect-profiles-chris-duarte-memphis-grizzlies"},{"title":"Know The Prospect: Chris Duarte","url":"https://www.postingandtoasting.com/2021/5/17/22437345/know-the-prospect-chris-duarte"}]}'></div></aside><p id="oBJD1A">At the same time, these rumors of the Lakers looking to move up in the draft come days after rumors of the team looking to move down. Jonathan Givony of ESPN reported on Sunday that <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/25/22593284/lakers-rumors-trading-down-2021-nba-draft-pick-first-round-second-salary-cap">the Lakers could look to move out of the first round</a> and net multiple second-round picks.</p>
<p id="FD7kZo">Given all that context, it appears the Lakers are focused on Duarte in the first round and, if he’s not available, may look to be out of the round altogether (or at least to move back in it). Or this could all be an attempt for the Lakers to obfuscate their intentions and keep some form of leverage in a trade before Thursday. We’ll find out in the hours and days to come.</p>
<p id="POImVx"><em><strong>For more </strong></em><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/los-angeles-lakers"><em><strong>Lakers</strong></em></a><em><strong> talk, subscribe to the Silver Screen and Roll podcast feed on </strong></em><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fpodcast%2Fsilver-screen-roll-for-los-angeles-lakers-fans%2Fid1439479212%3Fmt%3D2" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><em><strong>iTunes</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2XJK0kM4pR2uUy7WDmAybb?si=WZwWClvKRZeHeSTnuxdYrw"><em><strong>Spotify</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/vox/silver-screen-and-rollcast"><em><strong>Stitcher</strong></em></a><em><strong> or </strong></em><a href="https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5wb2RjYXN0bWlycm9yLmNvbS9zaWx2ZXItc2NyZWVuLXJvbGw%3D"><em><strong>Google Podcasts</strong></em></a><em><strong>. You can follow Jacob on Twitter at </strong></em><a href="https://twitter.com/JacobRude"><em><strong>@JacobRude</strong></em></a><em><strong>.</strong></em></p>
https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/27/22596331/lakers-rumors-2021-nba-draft-chris-duarte-oregon-trade-promiseJacob Rude2021-07-26T09:15:54-07:002021-07-26T09:15:54-07:00Podcast: Looking at the best 2021 NBA draft prospects for the Lakers
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<img alt="2020 NBA Draft" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/U3GmdJR2Ic0zBLiHiRzL2FmIOxE=/0x0:3600x2400/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69633869/1229676820.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>With the 2021 NBA draft only days away, the Lakers have a number of different prospects they could be looking at. Let’s break down the best ones.</p> <p id="UdfKX7">While the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Lakers</a> find themselves in free agent and <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/25/22593162/lakers-trade-rumors-kings-buddy-hield-kyle-kuzma">trade rumors aplenty</a>, the 2021 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA draft</a> is set for Thursday, which officially welcomes in draft week across the league. Though the Lakers have not retained a first-round selection on the roster since Moe Wagner in 2018, the possibility remains that the team stays put and takes a player with the No. 22 pick this year.</p>
<p id="uZY870">With that in mind, today’s episode of the “Can U Dig It” podcast saw host Jacob Rude bring on special guest and <a href="https://lakersdraft.substack.com/">draft expert Mike Garcia</a> to take a look at the Lakers’ various draft scenarios and possibilities.</p>
<p id="EHL8Ak">The two begin by discussing a handful of names that could be options for Los Angeles in the first round, including Chris Duarte of Oregon, <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/21/22588039/2021-nba-draft-rumors-lakers-promise-chris-duarte">who is rumored to have received a promise from the Lakers</a>. After touching base on the likes of Jaden Springer of Tennessee, Jared Butler of Baylor and Los Angeles native Josh Christopher of Arizona State, the conversation shifts to a recent report about the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/25/22593284/lakers-rumors-trading-down-2021-nba-draft-pick-first-round-second-salary-cap">Lakers potentially trading out of the first round</a>.</p>
<aside id="h7FOUa"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Tracker: Everyone we know the Lakers have looked at in the 2021 NBA Draft","url":"https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/22/22587124/2021-nba-draft-date-lakers-workout-picks-22-jaden-springer-trey-murphy-bones-hyland"}]}'></div></aside><p id="TwpZ0H">Klutch clients BJ Boston of Kentucky and Jericho Simms of Texas were then brought up as potential second-round prospects, as well as Wichita State’s Austin Reaves. Lastly, Garcia broke down a handful of undrafted free agent prospects the Lakers could target to fill out their Summer League roster.</p>
<p id="mxstTC"><em><strong>You can listen to all that and more on the full episode in the player embedded below, and to make sure you never miss a single show moving forward, subscribe to the Silver Screen and Roll podcast feed on </strong></em><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fpodcast%2Fsilver-screen-roll-for-los-angeles-lakers-fans%2Fid1439479212%3Fmt%3D2&xcust=xid:fr1580409928336bji%7Cxid:fr1580930251722fci%7Cxid:fr1581478708825fdb" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><em><strong>iTunes</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2XJK0kM4pR2uUy7WDmAybb?si=WZwWClvKRZeHeSTnuxdYrw"><em><strong>Spotify</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/vox/silver-screen-and-rollcast"><em><strong>Stitcher</strong></em></a><em><strong> or </strong></em><a href="https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5wb2RjYXN0bWlycm9yLmNvbS9zaWx2ZXItc2NyZWVuLXJvbGw%3D"><em><strong>Google Podcasts</strong></em></a><em><strong>.</strong></em></p>
<div id="embed-code"><iframe frameborder="0" height="200" scrolling="no" src="https://playlist.megaphone.fm?e=VMP1177491187" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<p id="IE2wSj"><em><strong>You can follow Jacob on Twitter at </strong></em><a href="https://twitter.com/JacobRude"><em><strong>@JacobRude</strong></em></a><em><strong>. You can follow Mike at </strong></em><a href="https://twitter.com/CanyonDriver"><em><strong>@CanyonDriver</strong></em></a>.</p>
https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/26/22593628/2021-nba-draft-rumors-trade-lakers-trade-prospects-chris-duarte-promiseSB Nation NBA News2021-07-25T12:38:58-07:002021-07-25T12:38:58-07:00The Lakers have reportedly explored trading down in the 2021 NBA Draft
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<img alt="COLLEGE BASKETBALL: FEB 21 Oregon at USC" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/_aTp4UX4Idrd2rRYMY_xXUPbXEw=/0x0:5403x3602/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69630425/1126765670.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Trading down in the 2021 NBA Draft could make some sense for the Lakers, for a variety of reasons.</p> <p id="Y10dlm">If there is one thing we know for sure with less than a week to go before the 2021 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA Draft</a>, it’s that the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a> have been actively working the phones and surveying all their options. The team has discussed <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/25/22593162/lakers-trade-rumors-kings-buddy-hield-kyle-kuzma">multiple deals involving Kyle Kuzma</a>, <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/25/22593217/nba-trade-rumors-kentavious-caldwell-pope-kyle-kuzma-lakers-kings-deal-every-team-contracts">as well as Kentavious Caldwell-Pope</a>, and it sounds like they are exploring a multitude of ways they could use their No. 22 pick as well. </p>
<p id="yAzjaN">The Lakers have looked at <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/22/22587124/2021-nba-draft-date-lakers-workout-picks-22-jaden-springer-trey-murphy-bones-hyland"><em>at least</em> 38 prospects that we know of,</a> but many of the prospective draft picks they’ve evaluated have stock far below the team’s pick in the back half of the first round. </p>
<p id="KOCfci">Now, according to Jonathan Givony of ESPN, we may know why the team is casting such a wide net: They are considering trading down to pick up another asset.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">With a big group of combo/scoring guards bunched together in the early 20s through early 30s, NBA executives say the Lakers have explored the option of moving down a few slots from the No. 22 pick while acquiring one or more second round picks. ESPN mock: <a href="https://t.co/VEdy8p5uV6">https://t.co/VEdy8p5uV6</a></p>— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) <a href="https://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/1419374471237013508?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2021</a>
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<p id="kv5HEx">For a team as bereft in draft capital as the Lakers are, this could make some sense. Not only has their <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/3/6/22312702/lakers-scouting-department-recent-draft-record-julius-randle-lonzo-ball-bi-tht-rob-pelinka-nba">vaunted scouting department</a> shown a knack for hitting on late picks in the draft (most recently Talen Horton-Tucker at No. 46), but the team could also use extra picks to grease the wheels in various trades after giving up most of their future war chest for Anthony Davis.</p>
<p id="fwLS0P">If the team traded down and picked up a later first-rounder and a second-round pick or two, for example, they could then use that pick to facilitate a trade, and then draft a second-rounder to get another young player on their roster, and one with a cheaper cap hit at that. </p>
<p id="KAeuTH">Second-round picks usually receive a veteran’s minimum contract, and often a non-guaranteed one at that. Meanwhile, first-round picks get a guaranteed salary, scaled <a href="http://www.cbafaq.com/scale17.htm">based on where they were picked</a>. The difference could help the Lakers navigate the hard cap if they choose to acquire a player in a sign-and-trade, hard-capping themselves in the process.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">This makes sense if the Lakers plan on acquiring a free agent via sign-and-trade or using the non-taxpayer MLE. The small difference in salaries between #22 ($2.7M) & the rookie minimum ($925k) helps a lot towards filling up the roster below the hard cap that would be activated. <a href="https://t.co/tcW4vbIMr9">https://t.co/tcW4vbIMr9</a></p>— Yossi Gozlan (@YossiGozlan) <a href="https://twitter.com/YossiGozlan/status/1419380012273192966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2021</a>
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<p id="kRlp4a">In short: Trading down could potentially give the Lakers more options in both free agency and on the trade market, while potentially getting a first-round quality player anyway, if their scouting department’s history is any guide.</p>
<p id="AwhFMo">We’ll see what the Lakers ultimately do when the draft takes place on July 29, but trading down could make a lot of sense for this front office in a multitude of ways. They just need to see if there is a deal to do so that they like enough to pull the trigger.</p>
<p id="BcryRf"><em><strong>For more </strong></em><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/los-angeles-lakers"><em><strong>Lakers</strong></em></a><em><strong> talk, subscribe to the Silver Screen and Roll podcast feed on </strong></em><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fus%2Fpodcast%2Fsilver-screen-roll-for-los-angeles-lakers-fans%2Fid1439479212%3Fmt%3D2" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><em><strong>iTunes</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2XJK0kM4pR2uUy7WDmAybb?si=WZwWClvKRZeHeSTnuxdYrw"><em><strong>Spotify</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/vox/silver-screen-and-rollcast"><em><strong>Stitcher</strong></em></a><em><strong> or </strong></em><a href="https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5wb2RjYXN0bWlycm9yLmNvbS9zaWx2ZXItc2NyZWVuLXJvbGw%3D"><em><strong>Google Podcasts</strong></em></a><em><strong>. You can follow Harrison on Twitter at </strong></em><a href="https://twitter.com/hmfaigen"><em><strong>@hmfaigen</strong></em></a><em><strong>.</strong></em></p>
https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/25/22593284/lakers-rumors-trading-down-2021-nba-draft-pick-first-round-second-salary-capHarrison Faigen2021-07-22T08:00:00-07:002021-07-22T08:00:00-07:00SB Nation Blogger Mock Draft: Lakers use 22nd pick on Usman Garuba
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<img alt="Spain Vs Iran Friendly Basket Match Ahead of Tokyo2021" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/6YTO11F364pb-1Kj5PEwv2xh8vs=/0x0:3992x2661/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69617130/1327263047.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Borja B. Hojas/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Lakers will surely be hoping Garuba is available when they pick in the actual NBA Draft.</p> <p id="1ZUgSY">When the <a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com">Los Angeles Lakers</a> are on the clock with the 22nd pick on July 29, the night of the 2021 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA Draft</a>, they’ll likely use every second they have to decide if they should take a player with the highest upside available, or prioritize a player that has the potential to contribute right away. Fortunately for me, I didn’t have to think that hard when it was my turn to pick for the Lakers in the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/e/22348000">SB Nation NBA Blogger Draft</a>.</p>
<p id="7Owj6G">Whether it was luck — or complete oversight by my colleagues — former <a href="https://www.managingmadrid.com">Real Madrid</a> star Usman Garuba fell into my lap at No. 22. Garuba didn’t enjoy the same success with Los Blancos as Luka Doncic did (few players have) but he did make a name for himself on what it considered one of the premier teams outside of the NBA.</p>
<p id="XKMy3d">In 2018, Garuba became the third-youngest player to ever play for Real Madrid’s senior team in the La Liga ACB at 16 years old. The following year, Garuba became <a href="https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2019/09/garuba-becomes-real-madrids-youngest-ever-starter">the youngest player in Real Madrid history to be a starter.</a> Doncic previously held the record.</p>
<p id="RSRHKj">Garuba ended his career at Real Madrid in 2021 with a laundry list of accolades, including a Liga ACB championship (2019), a Supercopa (2020), an ACB Best Young Player Award and a EuroLeague Rising Star award. He’s undoubtedly the most accomplished player in the current draft.</p>
<p id="kKcFZa">So why did he fall to No. 22? If I had to guess, it’s because Garuba’s position in the NBA isn’t as easy to project as some of his peers, especially when it comes to the offensive side of the floor.</p>
<p id="Hi8U1K">At 6’8, Garuba has the size to play out on the wing, but his 3-point shot is a work in progress and he’s not much of an isolation scorer, so, at the moment, he projects to be a traditional power forward/small-ball center in the NBA, and that’s not an archetype every team can get behind.</p>
<p id="HxmXrq">The reason Garuba is still projected to be a first-round pick in spite of that, though, is that he’s given scouts every reason to believe he can excel in that small-ball, utility role at the next level. He’s not Draymond Green, but he does have a 7’3 wingspan, crazy impressive defensive instincts and a knack for playmaking. That’s a player worth investing time and resources in, especially when the ethos of your team is defense like the Lakers’ is. If he’s on the clock when the actual team picks next week, he’d be a great choice.</p>
<p id="61OuQg"><em><strong>For more </strong></em><a href="https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/"><em><strong>Lakers</strong></em></a><em><strong> talk, subscribe to the Silver Screen and Roll podcast feed on </strong></em><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/silver-screen-roll-for-los-angeles-lakers-fans/id1439479212?mt=2&xcust=___sb__p_22345683__t_w__r_silverscreenandroll.com_" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><em><strong>iTunes</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2XJK0kM4pR2uUy7WDmAybb?si=WZwWClvKRZeHeSTnuxdYrw"><em><strong>Spotify</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/vox/silver-screen-and-rollcast"><em><strong>Stitcher</strong></em></a><em><strong> or </strong></em><a href="https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5wb2RjYXN0bWlycm9yLmNvbS9zaWx2ZXItc2NyZWVuLXJvbGw%3D"><em><strong>Google Podcasts</strong></em></a><em><strong>. You can follow this author on Twitter at </strong></em><a href="https://twitter.com/RadRivas"><em><strong>@RadRivas</strong></em></a>.</p>
https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2021/7/22/22586476/lakers-2021-nba-mock-draft-usman-garuba-real-madrid-statsChristian Rivas