Los Angeles Lakers: 5 dream targets during 2018 NBA free agency

1. LeBron James, SF, Cleveland Cavaliers

Now if we want to talk about dreams, look no further than Lakers fans’ love affair with the faint possibility of signing LeBron James this offseason. Every rumor is dissected with ridiculous precision, and yet nobody knows what the future may hold for the King.

So let’s imagine the hysteria that would ensue after he announced he’d be coming to Los Angeles. It would immediately turn this team into one worth taking seriously, especially with their slew of young playmakers. Then, if they managed to get someone like George as well, the result would likely be celebratory riots in the streets of L.A.

There are a number of hurdles to clear before that happens, though.

First, LeBron has to decide to turn his back on the Cleveland Cavaliers again. He’s already done so once, and then came back to fulfill a promise of bringing a title to his hometown team. Depending on how things go following the Cavaliers’ frenzy of moves at the trade deadline, it may be difficult for James to leave again.

Then there’s the whole part about convincing him Los Angeles should be his new home. Even if LeBron gives up on the Cavaliers, there’s no guarantee the Lakers are his only other consideration. Teams like the Rockets or Golden State Warriors could potentially make a run at him if the right pieces fell into place.

Next: 2017-18 Week 18 NBA Power Rankings

In this dream scenario, though, let’s just imagine him wearing a black, snake-skinned No. 23 jersey this time next year. It seems like a crazy concept, but stranger things have happened in the NBA.