Trust that is not how the Lakers feel. How you feel about their chances are irrelevant and what they should do. I'm basing my theory on what they have said and how they usually operate. I could be wrong, but I dont see it happening for a mere late 1st.
And they certainly could take a major leap next year, it's not out of the question. It happens nearly every year. Last year it was Blazers, the year before it was Phoenix, this year it's us (even though ours was much more expected than the previous two). They have young improving talent, vets, incoming high draft pick in major draft, and potential FAs. Who they could get I have no clue, but I doubt LA is walking into next year with a stand pat and tank mentality.