The Los Angeles Lakers and their superstars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis, were clearly focused on more firepower on the roster over the summer. Last season’s injuries and eventual elimination in the playoffs sparked their desires. With teams like the Milwaukee Bucks and Brooklyn Nets reloading, the Lakers were sure to follow their leads.
Their lead ended up in the franchise canvassing the league. They looked into disgruntled stars who may have been peeking at contenders over the summer. Bradley Beal and DeMar DeRozan were two of the popular names. Above those though is Damian Lillard.
Yahoo Sports’ Chris Haynes reported that Lillard was courted by James and Davis at the end of the season. All three guys were fresh off playoff losses going into the summer. LeBron extended the invite amidst the three stars working on Space Jam 2, per Haynes:
“He was like, ‘Pull up. Let’s have lunch to talk shop, so I pulled up.”
James and Lillard spoke about what a trio would look like in purple and gold. Lillard’s offensive prowess and will combined with the otherworldly abilities of Davis and James — it’s terrifying to imagine.
Haynes went on regarding Dame’s expression to LeBron about joining up with the two dynamos:
“I know if I were to play with y’all, I know it would work out because of my skill set,’ and who I am and who they are.”
Unfortunately, the all-star guard opted to keep at with the Portland Trail Blazers. On top of his recommitment, the thought of the Blazers front office trading Lillard just didn’t seem plausible. Just that fast, the proposed idea died.
The Lakers did bounce back by acquiring Russell Westbrook. It remains to be seen if his addition will pay off. One can’t help but wonder what would have happened if Lillard pressed the Blazers’ front office. All we can do is wonder; but for now, it’s a positive sign to see AD and LeBron be aggressive in bolstering their personnel.
