After securing two more years with LeBron James headlining their roster, the Los Angeles Lakers remain on track to winning this free agency. The Lakers have finalized a number of deals that could be crucial to their success in the upcoming NBA season.
Early speculation suggested that Los Angeles might pursue trading for Giannis Antetokounmpo. The odds of a space being reserved for Giannis has narrowed significantly after the Lakers finalized a two-year $85 million contract extension for LeBron James.
Additionally, Laker co-star Anthony Davis has finalized a $190 million maximum contract to keep him in LA for five more years. The Lakers organization took a gamble when they brought in Davis in 2019, a risk that has certainly paid off. The James-Davis duo is perhaps the most powerful across the league and is in a position to stand for the remainder of James’ career.
The Lakers are perhaps moving toward a younger lineup as well. The team moved on from both Rajon Rondo (age 34) and Danny Green (age 33). Additionally, A younger Dennis Schroder (age 27) is expected to be a crucial addition to the Laker roster. Montrezl Harrell, who has already expressed interest in running an offense alongside LeBron James, is another notable addition. The 26-year old aims to improve his numbers under the leadership of the vet in his 18th season. James seamlessly delivers scoring opportunities to his offense, and Harrell is yet another big man who could deliver big numbers to the Lakers’ box score each and every game in the upcoming season.
Another significant snag at $2.56 million brought in Marc Gasol, a 6’11” center known for his exceptionally high basketball IQ. In addition to being a defensive threat, Gasol also brings potential for a well-spread offense to the table.
At age 35, LeBron James remains atop the league’s leaders in usage. Headlining the Laker’s roster this upcoming season will, of course, be Anthony Davis and LeBron James. The Laker’s offense aims to remain in good shape with its younger additions allowing rest for the vets. A potential pick-and-roll unit consisting of Harrell and Schroder promises to be a key source of relief for their offense. The addition of Marc Gasol allows relief for Anthony Davis, who will face a number of the league’s biggest threats at center.
The Laker’s organization may have sacrificed a portion of its defense in exchange for another title-contending offense. Both James and Davis are on track to experience necessary relief in terms of IQ and youth responsibilities, respectively. A versatile lineup across the boards promises to take a significant shot at defending the title.
For more NBA coverage, click here.
For full NBA transactions, click here.
