Expect this deal to happen before the draft..

The Pacers Jonathan Bender is indeed on his way to Los Angeles along with the 17th pick in the draft. In return, the Lakers will send Devean George, Slava Medvedenko and a second-round pick. Expect the deal within a day or two of draft day, although it may not be triggered until June 28.

Im not in favor of the trade. I dont like sending George and Mevedenko. At least send Mevedenko.

George hasn't really done anything in LA...I believe he makes 5 mil next year, so this will clear some cap space as well (unless Bender has a big contract).

Yes I have seen this trade being rumored at Laker boards and Pacer boards.
Basically what it comes down to is exchanging trash for trash. The Lakers want the 17th pick and the Pacers want George's expiring contract (5 mil).

I love both George and Medvedenko. They have been on the team since the early days of the dynasty. I hope the Lakers can find a way to replace Brian Cook with Medvedenko.

I will be happy to get rid of Slava, George I have always liked but if he gets us Bender and a pick then Im all for it. Bender does have a huge contract but conveniently comes off the books the same year brian grants contract does.

I'd rather replace Slava with Brian Cook. All Cook does is shoot 3's. He can make them, but he is one-dimensional. He doesn't crash the boards and is too soft on defense.

Slava at least shoots higher percentage shots, hustles, and will grab some offensive boards. When given playing time he can be a decent threat off the bench.