Hey, I'm a long-time lurker, first-time poster. I read this trade on the RealGM boards, and I have to believe that the Hawks can outbid the Lakers on this.
"As originally revealed by Hoopsworld.com in April, 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. Loose ends: which Laker second-rounder goes to Indy? Did the Pacers convince the Lakers to send Brian Cook instead of Medvedenko? Expect the deal within a day or two of draft day, although it may not be triggered until June 28."
http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_13091.shtml
I was born and raised in New York, and now I live in Boston, yet I've become a Hawks fan because of this board. Keep up the good work.