I don't think the Lakers do, but they might. As a Celtics fan I wanted to trade Rondo for the Laker's #1 unprotected especially after seeing how hard their remaining schedule is. My bet is that the Lakers finish with the 3rd worst record and the Celtics with the 5th or 6th worst.
Let's say the Lakers get the #4 pick in this draft. They still might do the Rondo trade b/c they definitely have a higher appreciation of his talents than most other teams. In addition, he fits in with the "showtime" entertainment brand they've been successful with, not to mention that we all know he performs better when the spotlight is on him.
I'm I'm Danny Ainge I'd definitely try to sell this angle and hope that the Lakers bite.
Exactly where I am coming from. I don't mean this in a bad way, but I think Rondo has Laker written all over him.
Showtime like player, plays stronger in the prime-time televised games plus unlike Sacramento or Toronto, I think he'd be alot more willing to sign an extension in Hollywood playing with Kobe and whoever else they can recruit.
To further make it interesting, maybe both teams wait til the free agent moratorium in early July so maybe the Celts can also get Pau Gasol in a S&T.
Gasol and Sully could be a really nice front court (assuming all the Love stuff doesn't pan out.)