With two of the biggest names officially entering free agency within the last handful of days, the Lakers have already focused in on both for a blockbuster signing this summer. Both LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony announced they would be opting out/terminating their contract and becoming unrestricted free agents, and the Lakers will be looking to meet with both.
Lakers will try to set up a meeting with both LeBron & Carmelo once free agency hits. Interest is substantially higher on LeBron
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) June 24, 2014
While the Lakers are focused primarily on James, they still have their sights set on ‘Melo as a fallback plan. Ramona Shelburne and Marc Stein of ESPN wrote about the Lakers interest in not only one, but possibly both of the superstars.
"Sources say the Lakers, to that end, have been exploring their options with the No. 7 pick in Thursday’s draft and have told teams they are prepared to package the pick with the expiring contract of Steve Nash (owed $9.7 million next season) for the right offer."
Moving Nash and the #7 pick for a young player (a la Klay Thompson, as reported last week) would open up cap space and create the chance for the Lakers to form their own Big 3. However dim the chances may seem, you certainly can’t blame and likely expect the Lakers for trying.
With Bryant and Nash the only substantial players on the books, meaning the Lakers have room to make a big move. With Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade yet to decide on their futures, the free agent market could become even more rich with big name talent.
Let us know which Big 3 sounds most appealing Lakers fans!