George Karl at pre-draft workout even though Nuggets don't have pick: Ty Lawson on block?

George Karl as seen on Channel 4.

So it's a great sign that Karl showed up for a pre-draft workout today, despite the fact that the Nuggets don't have a pick for this week's draft -- although that might change.

Could the Nuggets be hoping to jump into the draft game? Last week, ESPN shared rumors that the squad is interested in a top ten selection and have dangled Ty Lawson to franchises willing to deal.

More scuttlebutt: The Indiana Pacers are reportedly fond of Lawson -- and they're ensconced in the number ten slot.

As the Denver Post notes, the players working out for the Nugs today -- including Notre Dame's Luke Harangody and Duke's Brian Zoubek -- aren't top ten talents. So Karl could have dropped by just to get a sense of free agent availability, or merely to send a message that he's coming back, not fading away.

Whatever the case, Karl's appearance is heartening to anyone who thought the Nuggets would have gotten further in the playoffs under his supervision. The team's window of opportunity isn't closed yet, and if Karl returns this season, it would provide one more reason to feel optimistic about the future.

Even if Ty Lawson might not be a part of it.