The Los Angeles Lakers hope to land at least one star this offseason, and one unnamed All-Star believes they will in the near future.
This season, the Los Angeles Lakers to a nice step forward in their rebuild. While mostly building through the NBA Draft, the Lakers have been able to establish one of the best young cores in the NBA.
With players like Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, Julius Randle, Kyle Kuzma, and Josh Hart, the future is bright in Los Angeles. In addition to having a strong young core, the Lakers also have cap space this offseason.
After a big trade with the Cleveland Cavaliers this season, the Lakers were able to create enough cap space this offseason for two max free agents. Considering where they were before Magic Johnson and Rob Pelinka took over, the Lakers are in great shape now.
Even though they have missed on big free agents in recent years, this Lakers team is in a much better position to lure stars. With strong leadership in the front office, the Lakers have a plan and are executing it nicely. Recently, one NBA All-Star said that the Lakers will land somebody soon. Here’s what he had to say via Lee Jenkins of Sports Illustrated.
"“They’ll get somebody soon,” says an All-Star due to hit free agency in the near future. “They play hard. They play together. They know their role. And, most important, they’re in Los Angeles.”"
Around the league, the Lakers gained a lot of respect this season, as they had some great games against some of the top teams. Also, the pace at which the Lakers play is very appealing for players, as it is an enjoyable style of basketball.
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Unlike in previous years, the Lakers also have young players that veterans would like to play with. With Ingram, Ball, Kuzma, and Hart still improving, the Lakers could be a great team in a few years when they all develop. Seeing this, All-Stars would likely heavily consider joining a team that has a bright present and future. Even though they missed the playoffs this season, the young core of the Lakers were able to impress this season.