Kawhi Leonard: LeBron James and Lakers fired free agency warning involving Raptors star
LOS ANGELES LAKERS have been warned by NBA expert Nick Wright they may struggle to recruit free agents such as Kawhi Leonard this summer if they fail to make the playoffs.
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The Lakers fell to a surprise 117-113 defeat against Eastern Conference strugglers Atlanta Hawks last night.
It puts further doubt on whether LeBron James' side can reach the playoffs as they sit 10th in the table.
Team president Magic Johnson worked hard to bring in reinforcements in the last trade window - with six offers for Anthony Davis all rejected by New Orleans Pelicans.
But he is expected to dip into the free agency this summer with a number of top stars out of contract.
However, Wright feels the Staples Center outfit will struggle to pull in the big names if they do not make the post-season this campaign.
"I think it is going to be harder for the Lakers to recruit a free agent if you don't have the Lakers in the playoffs," Wright told Fist Things First.
"If they look that far away."
Fellow pundit Chris Carter also feels the Lakers may struggle to acquire the top talent in the summer.
Toronto Raptors star Leonard is expected to be one of the most sought-after players.
But Carter is unsure if he would turn down the Lakers due to their form this term.
"I think it will impact the Lakers yes because guys want to win," Carter added.
"But also, there are plus and minuses everywhere.
"Will Kawhi be a plus or minus for him? I don't necessarily know that.
"Kawhi could be like 'They weren't good before I got here. I came here and then they were great'.
"There is a positive spin to it, depending on that individual player."