The Los Angeles Lakers are praying for a strong summer after seeing their rival Boston Celtics capture the 2023-24 NBA championship this week. The Lakers have two superstars LeBron James (25.7 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 8.3 APG in 2023-24) and Anthony Davis (24.7 PPG, 12.6 RPG) but need assistance to get over the hump and could look towards free agency to achieve that. Two players who stand out are veterans Chris Paul and DeMar DeRozan.
As Chris Paul approaches 40 years old next season and DeRozan close to 35, the Lakers could do enough convincing for both players to sign off on a chance to play in a big market and go all-in for an NBA championship alongside James and Davis. Here are the perfect free agency plans for the Lakers this summer.
Chris Paul – Veteran Minimum ($3,313,453)
The Golden State Warriors might waive Chris Paul before his $30.8 million contract becomes guaranteed on June 28th. Should this happen, Paul would enter the free-agent market, likely prioritizing a championship opportunity over financial considerations. Enter the Los Angeles Lakers, where Paul could finally unite with his close friend LeBron James. This pairing has been long speculated, given their well-documented friendship and mutual respect.
Playing in Los Angeles offers Paul several advantages beyond the opportunity to contend for a title. Despite his age and recent injury history, Paul remains one of the league’s most intelligent and effective floor generals. This past season, despite playing only 26.4 minutes per game in 58 appearances, he averaged 9.2 points and 6.8 assists per game on 37.1% from three.
The Lakers’ starting point guard situation is another critical factor. If D’Angelo Russell opts out of his $18.7 million player option and signs elsewhere, the Lakers will have a vacancy in their starting lineup. Paul could seamlessly fill this role, offering a significant upgrade in playmaking and basketball IQ. Ultimately, if Chris Paul becomes available and the Lakers can secure him for a veteran minimum, it would be a low-risk, high-reward move, offering Paul perhaps his best shot at finally capturing that elusive NBA title.
DeMar DeRozan – Mid-Level Offer ($5,183,000)
DeMar DeRozan is reportedly open to the idea of playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, a team he has admired throughout his career. As a high-IQ scorer and ball handler, DeRozan’s skill set would complement the dynamic duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. DeRozan’s scoring prowess (24.0 PPG) and ability to create offense (5.3 APG) would provide the Lakers with a reliable third option.
Throughout his career, DeRozan has been known for his mid-range game, slashing ability, and playmaking, making him a perfect fit alongside James and Davis. His presence on the floor would alleviate some of the offensive burden from both superstars, allowing them to focus more on their defensive responsibilities and preserving their energy for crucial moments.
DeRozan’s potential willingness to accept a mid-level offer highlights his desire to win a championship in a big market, prioritizing team success over personal earnings. In games where James or Davis need rest or are sidelined due to injury, DeRozan can step up as the primary scoring option. His consistency and reliability in scoring would ensure that the Lakers maintain a high level of offensive efficiency, even in the absence of their top stars.
Los Angeles Lakers Create A Star-Powered Roster And Become Title Favorites In The West
With Chris Paul and DeMar DeRozan joining on team-friendly deals, the Lakers can retain their core of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura with a chance to go all-in for the 2024-25 season.
Starting Lineup: Chris Paul, Austin Reaves, DeMar DeRozan, LeBron James, Anthony Davis
Key Bench Players: Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Jarred Vanderbilt, Rui Hachimura
The Lakers’ starting lineup of Chris Paul, Austin Reaves, DeMar DeRozan, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis combines veteran leadership, high basketball IQ, and versatile scoring. Chris Paul brings elite playmaking and defensive prowess, directing the offense with precision. Austin Reaves (15.9 PPG, 5.5 APG), known for his sharpshooting and hustle, complements Paul’s playmaking.
DeMar DeRozan adds scoring depth and playmaking from the wing, creating mismatches for opponents. LeBron James, the team’s cornerstone, continues to be a dominant force on both ends of the floor. Anthony Davis anchors the defense and provides inside scoring and rebounding.
The bench, featuring Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Rui Hachimura, offers a blend of youth, athleticism, and experience. Gabe Vincent provides solid backup point guard play with his defensive tenacity and shooting ability. Jalen Hood-Schifino, a promising young talent, brings energy and potential scoring off the bench.
Jarred Vanderbilt offers versatility and defensive intensity, capable of guarding multiple positions. Rui Hachimura adds scoring punch and rebounding, ensuring that the Lakers maintain their competitiveness even when the starters rest.
This revamped Lakers roster, with its combination of star power, experience, and depth, positions them as the favorites to come out of the Western Conference. They will present a formidable challenge to teams like the Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Lakers boast more star power than the Nuggets, whose success largely hinges on the brilliance of Nikola Jokić. Against the Timberwolves and Thunder, the Lakers’ extensive playoff experience and veteran leadership give them a distinct edge.
With their upgraded roster, the Lakers have a legitimate shot at making the NBA Finals. The potential for a Lakers vs. Celtics Finals matchup would be a thrilling renewal of one of the league’s most storied rivalries, bringing historical significance and intense competition to the forefront thanks to the veteran superstars the Lakers can bring in this summer.
