Los Angeles Lakers: 5 ring chasers to pursue this summer

By Jason Reed | Jul 11, 2021

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 05: Blake Griffin #2 of the Brooklyn Nets is guarded by Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during Game One of the Eastern Conference second round series at Barclays Center on June 05, 2021 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) /

2 of 6

(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers /

1. Blake Griffin

Blake Griffin is a really interesting case study this offseason as he had one of the best seasons in his career with Detroit, got hurt and his value plummeted thereafter. The Pistons decided to buy Griffin out despite the former all-star having another year under contract, which is rare in this league.

Griffin then went to Brooklyn and proved that he still has value as a role player. Better yet, with a bigger role, Griffin’s value could still go up. He is definitely past his prime but he is not too old yet and absolutely can be 80% of what he was three years ago.

This could lead to Griffin not being a possible candidate for the Lakers. Maybe a team overpays for him because of his namesake or the Lakers have to use the MLE on him. That would not be terrible, but there are better options for the MLE.

The one thing that is going for the Lakers is the fact that the Pistons will still be paying Griffin’s salary next season. That could convince the first overall pick to take a cheaper deal with a contender like the Lakers to get that ring and then get paid after one season back in LA.

Griffin has accomplished a lot in his career but he is still looking to win that NBA Championship, let alone play in an NBA Finals game. He will sign with a contender this offseason and perhaps he spurns the Nets for the Lakers.

Home/Lakers Free Agency