After a relatively disappointing season, the Lakers will look to strengthen themselves in the market this summer, with several big targets on their radar. Unfortunately, one star already seems to be stepping aside, so he shouldn’t be joining LeBron James’ team. No choice for the front office, you will have to be clever to attract a big name.
The Lakers are gearing up for a summer that could be rougher than expected. After a disappointment and a non-accession to the playoffs, which was however a formality at the start, we are logically expecting a reaction from the front office. The first to have paid the broken pots? Certainly Frank Vogel, who lost his job shortly after the end of this campaign. His replacement was also made official this Friday, in the person of Darvin Ham, who hopes to relaunch this roster.
The big question being: Will Russell Westbrook still be around? The answer is yes according to the latest echoes. The leader does not want to leave, since he will activate his player option, and the Angelinos do not want to join several assets in order to make him leave the ship. We can therefore assume that Brodie will be a Laker next year, with the clear desire to revive, and as much to say that there is work.
A star ready to stay in his team this summer?
Nevertheless, and regardless of Russ’ decision, the Lakers front office is looking for a way to surprise the market. It’s hard to say what, but Rob Pelinka is polling a big chunk of free agents, including Zach LaVine. The rear will be on the market this summer, and it is rumored that he is not necessarily against the idea of leaving Illinois, at least if he finds a max contract elsewhere. Brian Windhorst, in his recent podcast, comes on the contrary to calm the game.
“I don’t think Zach LaVine wants to leave, that’s not my read.”
– @WindhorstESPN on the Chicago Bulls(Via The Hoop Collective Podcast)
— Daniel Greenberg (@ChiSportUpdates) June 2, 2022
“I don’t think Zach LaVine wants to leave, that’s not how I see it. »
Recall that LaVine will have the choice to leave or not, while money should be a central element of his future. The back has never hidden it, he wants a maximum contract, whether at the Bulls, or elsewhere. Chicago seems ready to do what is necessary to keep him, but beware of a surprise if the Lakers manage to find a way to recover and convince him. For now, and despite some fears, it would still be surprising to see him go.
However, the last words of the player are not necessarily very reassuring:
I plan to enjoy this free agency, this whole process. We’re going through this with my agent, Rich Paul, and I have to make a decision from a business standpoint, as a man. Not that we think I’m necessarily going to come back, or necessarily leave.
According to ESPN, Zach LaVine could therefore stay in Chicago, putting the Lakers in the wind, but also other franchises interested in his services. A real blow for the competitors, while the Bulls hope to count on him, as well as DeMar DeRozan, for years to come. It promises if it happens.
