This offseason has already been an eventful one for the Los Angeles Lakers. Their coaching search continues after UConn’s Dan Hurley declined their offer. James Borrego and J.J. Redick remain the most mentioned candidates for the job.
Once that position is filled, attention will turn to the team’s roster. The Lakers have to retain LeBron James in free agency, but all signs are pointing to their partnership continuing. Anthony Davis remains a pillar to build around as well.
Outside of those two, anything can happen with this roster. The team likes Austin Reaves but has said he would be made available for the right player. With several draft picks at their disposal, many people have speculated the Los Angeles Lakers could look to upgrade via trade.
However, one analyst has suggested the team make a run at a big-time upgrade in free agency. Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report believes that DeMar DeRozan of the Chicago Bulls could be the exact kind of player the Los Angeles Lakers need.
“The Lakers are reportedly in the market for a third star, steady support scoring and additional shot-creation. DeRozan checks every box as a six-time All-Star who was one of only 15 players to average at least 24 points and five assists in each of the past two seasons. While he wouldn’t help with their shooting shortage, he could help enhance the shooters they have (or add) by setting them up on drive-and-kicks or pulling defensive attention away from them.
“The Lakers may not have more than the taxpayer’s mid-level exception to offer DeRozan, but maybe that’s enough for him to go championship-chasing in his hometown alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.”
That is a bold suggestion from Buckley. It wasn’t too long ago that DeRozan looked to be on the way to the Lakers, as he was heading there in the 2021 offseason. But, Los Angeles pivoted to the deal to acquire Russell Westbrook, which resulted in DeRozan heading to the Bulls.
Three years later, can the Los Angeles Lakers right that wrong? The trade for Westbrook was a disaster and a major reason the team is in the position it currently is. DeRozan would be a huge upgrade in several regards, but it is fair to wonder if he would actually be willing to take that sizable of a pay cut.
If he is, there are teams closer to contention than the Los Angeles Lakers who could pique his interest. But, none of those franchises possess the hometown aura playing for the purple and gold would provide.
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