Los Angeles Lakers: The Pursuit Of Rajon Rondo

Not too many sports franchises herald the history and accolades that both the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics possess. The teams combine for 33 NBA titles, several Hall of Famers, and classic battles recently dating back to the 2010 NBA Finals.

The Lakers were the victor in that matchup, but the four years to follow have hit both teams hard. Neither has come close to the NBA Finals, and both were in last year’s NBA Draft lottery. Compared to the olden days, it has been a step beneath glory for the two.

A Friday night matchup pitted the foes against each other, without much to play for. Despite having unfamiliar names on each side, the teams are still home to two of the league’s best players in Kobe Bryant and Rajon Rondo. Friday, both players took time out their busy NBA schedules to give a try at breaking the internet.

ESPN’s Baxter Holmes spotted the perennial all-stars out casually enjoying breakfast in Boston.

With Rondo’s looming free agency and trade rumors swirling around the Celtics organization, Bryant may have been playing the role of recruiter for the 28 year-old point guard. With only a year left on his deal, Bryant may be looking to pair himself with Rondo and other free agents in next year’s class to make a playoff run. As many remember, Kobe has admired Rondo’s game since the two have faced each other throughout their career:

There’s no denying the possible match that the players can make on the floor. Bryant has yet to have a floor general like Rondo. With a career average of 8.5 assists per game to just 2.8 turnovers, Rondo is a player that Bryant can trust to handle the ball and initiate the offense.

His unique ability to spread the ball around makes the game easier for teammates, something that the Lakers have not had consistently.

Not only can Rondo make it happen within the offense, but his defense has always been a staple. Whether it’s getting into the passing lanes or covering the team’s best perimeter player (ask LeBron James), Rondo accepts the challenge at that end of the floor.

The Lakers have always struggled on defense at the point guard position, even during their championship runs. Rondo’s next few years could bring a presence defensively if Los Angeles somehow acquires him.

Many fans doubted Rondo’s ability to lead the Celtics when they assembled their Big Three of Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, and Kevin Garnett. Rondo elevated his game and complimented them well. Not only did he become a complete point guard, but he was able to carry the team at times.

One of his biggest performances came in the 2012 Eastern Conference Finals, dropping 44 points, 10 assists, eight rebounds, and three steals.

The Lakers are patiently gauging the Celtics to see what’s next with Rondo. As previously stated, he will be a free agent next year, and will likely demand big money. The Lakers can pursue him with the money he desires, and the possibility exists of a mid-season trade.

Los Angeles has potential draft picks to offer and expiring contracts, such as Steve Nash or Jeremy Lin. Likely, the team will wait until the summer to keep their assets, and hopefully woo the veteran point guard. If the team is planning to send off Kobe Bryant as many imagine, they will do what it takes to get a shot at Rondo.

Next: NBA Power Rankings: Lakers In Unfamiliar Territory