LA Lakers trade rumors 2016: Julius Randle for Atlanta Hawks' Paul Millsap?

Because of the young talents the Los Angeles Lakers have, together with them undergoing a rebuilding phase, trade rumors are normal. Now, a new suggested swap involves them dealing away one member of their young core for the Atlanta Hawks' Paul Millsap. 

(Reuters/Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports)Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (center) could be the front line help the Los Angeles Lakers are searching for.

This core features the likes of Jordan Clarkson, Julius Randle, D'Angelo Russell, Larry Nance Jr. and Brandon Ingram. 

It is no secret that the Lakers are trying to better their front line, and even before the free agency started, they were already looking for a center. They tried to accomplish this goal by signing Timofey Mozgov, a move criticized by many, and selecting Ivica Zubac 32nd overall in this year's draft. 

Currently, the Lakers' frontcourt has Mozgov, Zubac, Luol Deng, Ingram, Nance, Randle, with free agents Tarik Black, Ryan Kelly, Robert Sacre, and Metta World Peace. This list needs to be improved if the organization aims to contend in the 2016-17 season and Millsap could be that boost. 

Millsap remains to be one of the best power forwards in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He is a three-time All-Star, and last season, he put up great numbers averaging 17.1 points, nine rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.7 blocks, with 1.8 steals per game. Unfortunately for the 31-year-old, Atlanta placed him on the trade market earlier this off-season in the team's attempt of keeping center Al Horford, who later signed with the Boston Celtics. 

If the Lakers are still searching for frontcourt improvement, Millsap can be the best option for them. If they are willing to sacrifice one of their budding players for him, it is likely going to be Randle. 

Randle also plays power forward and the Hawks will need a player at the no. 4 position if they are dealing away Millsap. The 21-year-old may not be on the same level as the experienced big man, but last season, he provided good numbers for Los Angeles. 

If an exchange between the Lakers and Hawks happens, it is expected that Randle will not be the only one heading to Atlanta for Millsap. Maybe one or two veterans will go with him, or the trade can also involve future picks. 

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