Since acquiring Anthony Davis in a blockbuster trade on Saturday, the Los Angeles Lakers’ focus has shifted towards signing a third star in free agency. So far, two names heavily linked to the organization have been Kemba Walker and Jimmy Butler, both of whom could form the next superteam by joining Davis and LeBron James in Southern California.
However, bigger prizes exist, even if the Lakers seem to be trailing other teams for their services. One such name is Kyrie Irving who has been increasingly rumored to make a move from the Boston Celtics to the Brooklyn Nets this July. Despite that speculation, however, the Lakers can’t completely be counted out, especially after their trade.
Following via The Athletic’s David Aldridge:
Whether it’s Kemba Walker, as the New York Times’s Marc Stein reported as a potential Lakers target, or Kyrie Irving, whom sources have maintained for months wants to play with Davis, someone dynamic will likely be on the ball next season in L.A.
Irving and James did not finish their time as teammates on the best of terms but the two seem to have made up since LeBron made the move to Los Angeles. Kyrie has wanted to be the leader of his own team but the potential of winning a title in LA with James and Davis may be enough to sway his decision. Add to it the allure of leading the team alongside Davis after James has retired and it’s easy to see why he may consider that option.
Meanwhile, Irving’s desire to play with Davis has been speculated before. Notably, it was a reason given for the Celtics to be aggressive in pursuing a trade for the big man in order to keep Irving in town. Of course, Rich Paul’s comments about AD’s unwillingness to play in Boston may have ruined that goal.
Irving may be the best realistic option for the Lakers, who are rumored to be out of the running for Kawhi Leonard. His spectacular level of play on top of his youth (only 27 years old) would make him a catch for any team. If that’s the Lakers, then LA would officially be back.
How can you rule out Lakers in the running for kawhi?Let’s not forget kawhi wanted to be traded to Lakers,grew up a Laker fan.
Very easy to sell Lakers to kawhi now with AD,James, kuz… Thats 70 plus points per game. Chemistry won’t be an issue.
He and AD will be kobe n Shaq 2.0.
When LeBron retires freeing up huge cap space they instantly reload.
We are talking dynasty and a legacy that will be unmatched.
He will have the support and network around him to build his brand away from basketball and life after basketball.
Love the sound of that
If only we could get Kyrie and Kawhi. 😎