The Los Angeles Lakers have a storied tradition of rostering the league’s most luminary figures, with legends like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Kobe Bryant donning the iconic purple and gold. In the current era, LeBron James and Anthony Davis are at the helm, having secured the franchise’s 17th NBA title in 2020. The team will have to find another superstar soon.
Despite their past success, the duo has faced challenges in replicating such success in subsequent seasons. The Lakers’ front office, aiming to bolster the team, remained inactive at the trade deadline, maintaining the option of using up to three first-round picks for potential offseason negotiations.
Speculation is rife about the Lakers potentially adding another superstar to their roster this offseason, as suggested by ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins during his appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.
Although Perkins refrained from naming specifics, the conversation has steered towards several star guards previously linked to the Lakers, including Trae Young, Donovan Mitchell, and Kyrie Irving. Among these, Young emerges as a prominent candidate, particularly given the internal belief within the Lakers’ organization regarding his availability.
The Lakers’ earlier interest in Dejounte Murray notwithstanding, acquiring Young would significantly elevate the team’s dynamics. Young’s skill set, characterized by his exceptional outside shooting and playmaking abilities, aligns well with the needs of James and Davis, potentially heralding a seamless transition into the Lakers’ next chapter of basketball excellence.
Young’s affiliation with Klutch Sports, representing James and Davis, could also play a pivotal role in facilitating trade discussions with the Atlanta Hawks in the coming summer.
Despite the mixed outcomes of the Lakers’ previous endeavors with a trio of stars, Young’s compatibility with James and Davis, especially regarding his shooting prowess and offensive creativity, could pave the way for a fruitful partnership and enhance the Lakers’ pursuit of an 18th championship banner.
