NBA Trades: 5 targets the Los Angeles Lakers must pursue this offseason

NBA Trades: 5 quality targets for the Los Angeles Lakers — Kyrie Irving, Brooklyn Nets

The big fish that the Los Angeles Lakers have been pursuing this offseason is Kyrie Irving of the Brooklyn Nets. According to The Athletic’s Alex Schiffer, Sam Amick, and Joe Vardon (subscription required), some believe that Irving is even trying to force his way to Los Angeles. Though it does not seem like the Lakers and Nets are currently lodged in legitimate conversations, seeing Irving land in Los Angeles this offseason would be a dream for the purple and gold.

There is no denying that Irving is one of the best point guards currently in the business and that he would make the Lakers more formidable on impact. He would be a perfect fit at point guard, giving the Lakers a player that can put up points and make highlight plays every trip down the floor. Not to mention that Irving also has previously-established chemistry with LeBron James, as the two won a championship together with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016. Irving, James, and Davis would be among the NBA’s best leading trios and would certainly compete for a title next season.

Financially, Irving will make $36.5 million next season, meaning he would have to be brought back to L.A. in a blockbuster deal involving Russell Westbrook. However, those talks have stalled for the time being as it seems like the Lakers do not want to cough up significant draft capital for Irving. Both Los Angeles and Brooklyn seem dug in on their trade stances surrounding Irving right now, and only time will tell how things transpire.

Yet, if one thing is for certain, it is that the Lakers must make a push to get Irving before the 2022-23 NBA season begins.