The Los Angeles Lakers have disappointed again this season, losing in the first round of the playoffs. With an aging core, the Lakers will potentially look to make a make a major splash this offseason by adding another star. Already they have been connected to these five:
Donovan Mitchell
Donovan Mitchell is a star player and the Cleveland Cavaliers certainly don’t want to lose him. However, Mitchell has one year left on his contract before he can opt-out. Rather than lose him for nothing, if the Cavaliers are unable to sign him to an extension, they may look to trade him now.
Mitchell would fit in well with the Lakers, adding a star guard that they lack. He’s had stellar performances in the playoffs, which the Lakers would hope will help their recent struggles.
Darius Garland
The Cavaliers are hoping they’ll be able to extend Donovan Mitchell rather than trade him. But if they do, they may be forced to trade Darius Garland instead. Garland’s role and production have reduced since the addition and emergence of Mitchell. There has been a suggestion that Garland’s agent Rich Paul may discuss a trade with the team if Mitchell were to stay. With Paul’s connection to LeBron and the Lakers, there is no surprise that Garland to LA is being rumored.
Trae Young
The Atlanta Hawks haven’t been thrilled with the paring of Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. After winning the draft lottery, the Hawks may be willing to move Young. Young is an excellent shooter and would fit the Lakers well. His defensive issues are concerning, but in a league that continues to trend toward offense. He may be what the Lakers need.
Brandon Ingram
The New Orleans Pelicans are unlikely to sign Brandon Ingram to an extension. This leads to the indication that they’ll move him, so he doesn’t leave for nothing next year. Ingram started his career with the Lakers and got moved in the Anthony Davis trade. A reunion could work between Ingram and the Lakers, partnering him with the player they traded him for. Ingram would add another great scoring option but may leave the team without a true point guard.
DeMar DeRozan
DeRozan is a Los Angeles native, and has been linked to the Lakers a number of times in the past. DeRozan is entering free agency and could return home. He’s been vocal recently that playing in Los Angeles is always an option. He wouldn’t do much to address three-point shooting concerns but would add a stellar scoring option the Lakers need. There may be doubts about the money to sign him since he isn’t young, but a short-term, and perhaps hometown discount could occur.
The Los Angeles Lakers will certainly be shopping during this offseason, and these five stars will be on their list to try and acquire.