But instead of going all in, the ninth-seeded Lakers decided to stick with their existing group of pay and prepare for what might be a blockbuster move in the offseason.
LeBron James is reportedly not going to be traded because a high-ranking official stated that it would be preferable for James to retire as a Laker. Although the team anticipates he will return, the seasoned veteran has a player option.
James has never been afraid to put pressure on those in positions of authority. Throughout his prior stints with the Miami Heat and Cleveland Cavaliers, the 20-time All-Star was actively involved in personnel decisions.
The future of James will also include his oldest son, Bronny. The star player from USC may enter the upcoming NBA Draft. The Athletic reports that teams all over the league have started preparing for Bronny’s draft in an effort to sign his father as a free agent.
To keep their franchise center happy, the Lakers, who are willing to add Bronny in the offseason, want to make an even greater splash. Three names stand out in particular in the study.
The source identified Kyrie Irving, Donovan Mitchell, and Trae Young as superstars the Lakers are aiming to pair alongside LeBron James. A high-ranking person believes the Lakers will pursue one of the three with all of their draft picks.
Los Angeles would probably need to include Austin Reaves in the deal for a player of that level. In addition, the Lakers have a ton of second-round options, four pick swaps, and up to three first-round picks up for grabs in trade negotiations.
