After Carmelo, What is Lakers’ Plan B?

Here we are, Tuesday July 8, anxiously waiting on Carmelo Anthony‘s decision. After initial plans were that a decision would be made by weekends end, Sunday and Monday passed without a peep. In reality, the longer the decision takes, the less likely it appears the Lakers are his option. Anthony could be angling for a sign and trade to Chicago or, more likely, waiting on LeBron James‘ decision before making his own.

In short, none of this is good for L.A.’s shot at Melo.

Fortunately for the Lakers, the entire free agent market has come to a screeching halt, with James’ decision looming large. His choice will be the first of many, many dominoes. Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade are waiting solely on James. Melo is expected to be waiting on him. Players like Lance Stephenson, Greg Monroe, and Isaiah Thomas realize that the market will blow wide open after James makes a decision.

In short, all of this is good for L.A.

There are a lot of options for the Lakers if Melo moves on. Let’s take a look at who they’ll be targeting if Anthony turns down the Lakers pitch.