NBA Rumors: Lakers Expected To Pursue Several Playmakers But Chris Paul Unlikely
LeBron James, Chris Paul, Suns, Lakers
May 25, 2021; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (left) alongside Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul during the second half in game two of the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Phoenix Suns Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Like every offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers are currently being linked to every big-name free agent available, but this time there seems to be more smoke around the rumors.

It is no secret the Lakers are seeking a difference-making playmaker to ease the burden off LeBron James and Anthony Davis, and so far reports have them chasing after several high-profile names.

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Los Angeles is expected to cast a wide net in their search:

The Los Angeles Lakers are pursuing a third stellar player who provides playmaking and shot creation around LeBron James and Anthony Davis, sources said.

The Lakers are expected to show interest in several free agents such as Kyle Lowry, DeMar DeRozan and Spencer Dinwiddie, according to sources, but another scenario has gained some traction.

One popular name that has been floated around is Chris Paul, but because of the Lakers’ limited assets and lack of cap space, a trade to acquire the Phoenix Suns guard is close to impossible:

The Lakers used their treasure chest of assets — such as promising young players in Brandon Ingram and Lonzo Ball, and draft picks — in the Davis trade with New Orleans in 2019, which makes a superstar trade for a player like Beal or a superstar signing like Chris Paul impossible. The Lakers are expected to have the taxpayer mid-level exception at their disposal this offseason, which is not close to what Paul would command in free agency, nor would the Suns entertain a sign-and-trade with a fellow Western Conference rival. For the Lakers, the offseason is expected to be a quest for a third playmaker and shot-creator — not a faulty pursuit for a star player.

Players like Lowry, DeRozan and Dinwiddie make far more sense for the Purple and Gold to acquire because it would not cost them as much as it would take to get Paul. Even though Paul might be considered to be the best of the bunch, the Lakers would be better off going after someone else because of their roster and salary cap situation.

Lakers have discussed Hield trade with Kings

One other guard that the Lakers have been linked to although he isn’t a point guard is Buddy Hield of the Sacramento Kings.

The Lakers and Kings have reportedly discussed a trade involving Hield and Kyle Kuzma, which could potentially be done and wouldn’t preclude the Lakers from pursuing the other free agent point guards.

Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!

You May Also Like

Lakers News: Nuggets’ Michael Malone Marvels At LeBron James’ Greatness

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James set another huge milestone against the Denver Nuggets on Saturday night when he became…

Lakers News: Anthony Davis Tells Anecdote From Shootaround About Urging Malik Beasley To Shoot When Open

The first game after the All-Star break was a major success as the Los Angeles Lakers were able to blow out the Golden State Warriors…

2020 NBA Playoffs: Jared Dudley Expects Lakers To Play Rockets

After defeating the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round of the 2020 NBA Playoffs, the Los Angeles Lakers are…

Recap: Anthony Davis Aggravates Achilles; Lakers Lose To Nuggets

Anthony Davis didn’t play in the second half after aggravating his right Achilles injury, and the Los Angeles Lakers…