With the Los Angeles Lakers supposedly turning their attention to 2019 NBA free agency, let’s take a look at which superstars could be on their radar two offseasons from now.
Heading into 2017-18 campaign, all of the talk was about the Los Angeles Lakers‘ plan for 2018 NBA free agency. They were going to create cap space and use it to sign two superstars. More specifically, they fancied themselves on the verge of inking LeBron James and Paul George.
Well now, it appears that may not be the plan anymore. According to ESPN‘s Ramona Shelburne and Adrian Wojnarowski, the Lakers are “recalibrating their focus” on the 2019 free agency class. That’s not to say they’ve abandoned their hopes of landing a star or two this upcoming offseason, but they’re taking a more long-term look at the franchise’s future — or admitting the original plan may very well fail.
That begs the question of which players Magic Johnson and co. could have their eyes on when 2019 free agency rolls around. There are a few superstars set to be available, but I can imagine the Lakers will be thinking big.
With that in mind, I decided to take a look at the superstars I believe the Lakers will go for in 2019.
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So without further ado, here are the three NBA elites the Lakers could be “recalibrating their focus” for. I don’t think they’ll stand pat this offseason, but don’t be surprised to see them save some cap space for one of these dynamic talents.
Hassan Whiteside, C, Miami Heat
Originally, I was going to put Jimmy Butler in this first slot. However, with a couple of other wings also coming up, it only made sense to take a look at a big man the Lakers could be looking to acquire come 2019.
Hence, the inclusion of Hassan Whiteside.
Back in 2016, Whiteside was signed to a massive deal to be the new face of the Miami Heat. However, we’re here in 2018 and things haven’t gone as planned. There have been rumors of Whiteside potentially moving before the trade deadline, although the team isn’t making a concerted effort to put a deal together (via the Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson). It’s looking like he’ll be searching for a new place to call home in about a year and a half.
Maybe the Lakers will be interested when that time comes. They don’t have a proven young center on the roster, and Brook Lopez seems unlikely to return next season. Unless Ivica Zubac or Thomas Bryant suddenly emerges as a quality starter, Whiteside would fill a significant hole.
On top of that, he’s an elite rim protector, something the Lakers haven’t had in years. Adding Whiteside would be a big upgrade for Los Angeles on both ends of the floor, helping them build a more complete starting lineup that can compete with the rest of the Western Conference.
Klay Thompson, SG, Golden State Warriors
I find it hard to believe Klay Thompson isn’t yearning for the opportunity to be the go-to guy. He’s obviously got the talent, but is currently third in the line of the Golden State Warriors’ superstars. Becoming the top dog somewhere else will be a very appealing option come 2019.
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The Warriors’ financial situation also helps his odds of moving on. They’re already well into luxury tax territory, and are going to need to re-sign Kevin Durant this offseason (assuming he declines his player option). When that time comes, they’re going to be paying millions in luxury taxes just to keep the band together.
Eventually, the price is going to get too steep. As great as this team is together, they can’t keep it going forever. So when Thompson hits the market in 2019, there’s an excellent chance he takes his talents elsewhere. If that’s the case, why not head south to join the Lakers?
By 2019, the Lakers should be a team on the rise. Lonzo Ball will have developed into one of the league’s top playmakers, Brandon Ingram will be an explosive offensive threat, and Kyle Kuzma will be the smart, efficient scorer we’ve all come to know. Joining that group, along with any other eventual acquisitions, has to be at least somewhat intriguing.
Bringing in an elite defender and sharpshooter makes too much sense. It’s going to cost a max contract to sign Thompson no matter the team. The Lakers’ band of young stars and his father’s history with the franchise may be enough to lure him to Los Angeles.
Kawhi Leonard, SF, San Antonio Spurs
If the San Antonio Spurs don’t re-sign him before he hits the open market, Kawhi Leonard better have the kitchen sink thrown at him by the Lakers. The Los Angeles native has to have some interest in returning to his old stomping grounds, right?
Honestly, signing Leonard in 2019 would be bigger for the Lakers than James or George this year. He’s one of the NBA’s brightest stars, and will only be 28 when free agency begins two Julys from now. Prior to his current injury issues, Leonard was showing steady and significant progress on a yearly basis.
Once healthy, I’d imagine he’ll pick up where he left off. He’s a dynamic talent on both ends of the floor, and would obviously help upgrade the Lakers’ erratic defense. Then there’s the offensive skills he’s been polishing over the last few years, helping him emerge as a true force with the basketball in his hands.
Obviously the Lakers are already set with Brandon Ingram at small forward, However, if Leonard was inserted into the mix, they’d find a way to make it work. Put simply, Magic would be crazy to not go all-in on signing the Spurs’ superstar.
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Chances are slim Leonard ever leaves San Antonio. Despite the recent rumors of discontent behind closed doors (via ESPN), I don’t see him ditching the Spurs unless Gregg Popovich leaves. Realistically, though, Leonard has to be on the Lakers’ minds if their focus really is on 2019.