Lakers news: LeBron James free agency signing would open ‘ring-chaser’ floodgates
THE LOS ANGELES LAKERS would have no problem recruiting a supporting cast if the team can convince LeBron James to sign for the Western Conference giants during free agency this summer.
The Lakers are considered James’ favoured destination if, as expected, he declines the player option for the final year of his current Cavs deal worth a reported $35m.
A move to Los Angeles would mean competing in the Western Conference for the first time in his 15-year career, placing himself on a collision course with long-time rivals Golden State for a place in the NBA Finals next season.
James’ Cavaliers had contested four straight championships against the Warriors, winning only once in 2016 as Golden State bulldozed their way to picking up three Larry O'Brien trophies since 2015.
In joining a youthful Lakers franchise someway short of the quality on display in Warriors’ star-studded roster, James would appear to be facing a near-impossible task to compete for a championship once again next year.
But, according to a new report from HoopsHype duo Alex Kennedy and Bryan Kalbrosky, James can count on finding help from fellow stars around the league fairly easily.
“Several veterans have told me they'd settle for a minimum deal with the Lakers if they land LeBron James,” Kennedy tweeted.
“All eyes will be on L.A. and very few teams have cap room this summer, so they'd have no trouble adding complementary pieces to fill out the roster.”
James must announce his intention to opt out of his Cavs deal by midnight tonight in order to hit free agency, with a decision on his future expected to follow in the next couple of days.
Reacting to Kennedy and Kalbrosky’s report online today, one NBA fan wrote: “Where LeBron goes, ring-chasers will follow…”
Another wrote: “You thought they followed him to Cleveland? Just wait until he is in LA.”
“Vince Carter in a Lakers jersey would make me very happy,” joked a third.
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