Let’s explore three different 2019 free agent scenarios for the Los Angeles Lakers that could realistically happen in the next week.
Two weeks ago the Los Angeles Lakers agreed to trade Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, and Josh Hart for Anthony Davis. This was a great move, but left the Purple and Gold with a little over $23 million to spend in free agency (far below what they need to pursue a max free agent).
Things have changed drastically over the last few days though, because Anthony Davis has agreed to waive his $4.1 million trade bonus and Rob Pelinka managed to deal Moritz Wagner, Isaac Bonga, and Jermerrio Jones to the Washington Wizards.
The Lakers now have $32 million to spend in free agency, which is enough cash to sign a superstar.
With approximately 40% of the players in the league entering some form of free agency (restricted or unrestricted) this offseason, there are dozens of different ways things could play out for the Lakers over the next ten days.
As the rumors about which players the Purple and Gold will sign continue to fly around the internet faster than a flock of birds soaring down south to escape the perils of a northern winter, it’s important for Lakers fans to sort through the madness and understand what could realistically happen to the team over the next week or so.
Let’s start with the worst possible free agent outcome for the Lakers, then proceed to a good scenario, and finish with the best possible ending to the offseason.