HIBBERT HEADS TO LAKERS, THEN PACERS INK HILL
The Los Angeles Lakers acquired center Roy Hibbert from the Indiana Pacers for a future 2nd-round draft pick.
What does it give the Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers are hustling hard this summer to become relevant again, and clearly they believe big Hibbert can make them more competitive right away. Hibbert probably can, but that doesn't mean L.A. will be returning to the playoffs in 2016. Even though Hibbert only has one year left on his contract (so can be let go if he doesn't pan out), his almost-$16 million price tag is a hefty one--especially for a pivot who has become less than dependable.
What does it give the Indiana Pacers
Getting a future second-round pick obviously isn't much in return for a former two-time All-Star, but this deal is about two things for the Pacers: freeing up money for other roster moves, and getting more consistent production from the pivot position (which they likely will after intriguingly inking former Lakers center Jordan Hill).
Fantasy impact
Hibbert should probably get drafted a round or two earlier in most fantasy leagues now that he's with the Lakers. That said, he's aging a bit and has become inconsistent, so don't overrate him (even though he may see a big role with L.A.). Meanwhile Jordan Hill, now with the Pacers, gets a similar uptick in fantasy fortunes now that he's a clear-cut starter for Indiana.
