Los Angeles Lakers: Latest free agency rumors you need to know about

Lakers “not as hot” in LeBron pursuit

Okay, I know what you’re saying: “So not only are the Lakers going to miss out on George, but LeBron is going to give us the cold shoulder as well?!”

Before we go any further, step back from the ledge. Remember that these are rumors; they only carry so much weight. With that being said, it is noteworthy that both of Magic Johnson‘s superstar targets are now said to be cooling on the idea of coming to Hollywood.

Yes, apparently James isn’t smitten either. This is what ESPN‘s Chris Haynes had to say when speaking on “The TK Show“:

"“Houston has been linked a lot. I’ve been told that Philly of course, that’s legit. The Lakers are still in play but they’re not as hot as it was before, but you’re going to grant Magic Johnson a meeting. That’s just, you’re gonna do that. And you’re gonna listen. So they have things in play, the Lakers have been setting up for two years for this summer.”"

Now before you blow a gasket, let’s look at this logically. With the way the NBA Finals are going, LeBron has every reason to ditch the Cleveland Cavaliers. Getting him to the open market is the first step. Now it would have been extremely naive to assume he’d just stroll on in to Los Angeles, sign a contract and call it a day. There was always going to be competition.

As Haynes suggests, other teams will throw their hats in the ring. It’s going to take a lot for the Rockets to get involved, but Daryl Morey is a cap magician — don’t count him out. I think the Bryan Colangelo situation hurt the 76ers, but they’re worth taking seriously as well. Still, don’t count out the Lakers and Magic, who I’m sure have already drawn up the perfect pitch.

Next: Bold predictions for Lakers during 2018 draft

Much like with George, it would be best not to hold your breath in hopes of James signing on the dotted line with the Lakers. They aren’t out of the race, but him being “not so hot” on the idea isn’t a great sign.