Lakers, East Contender Named As Suitors For $215 Million Star

The Los Angeles Lakers did an incredible job in the NBA In-Season Tournament and celebrated a great win. Now they are ready to go back to their regular season, and yes, rumors are louder than ever. NBA analysts have linked the Lakers to numerous players and they are definitely considered as potential suitors for a top star.

Shams Charania from The Athletic discussed the Lakers’ chances to get Zach LaVine from the Chicago Bulls. According to Charania, the Philadelphia 76ers are also in the game for LaVine.

“The Los Angeles Lakers and Philadelphia 76ers are expected suitors for LaVine, but both are operating from positions of patience and due diligence,” Charania reported on Monday, December 11.

The two-time All-Star makes perfect sense for the Lakers. Chicago was able to win games without him, meaning the franchise doesn’t need him anymore. The Bulls won four straight games in LaVine’s absence. Did they put him on the trade block already?

Lakers could be potential suitors, but their targeted star has a long history of injuries

LaVine’s history of injuries could be a real deal-breaker for the Lakers. He struggled to complete a full season in his 10 years. His health could be a big issue for the Lakers and any other NBA team.

“The sense around the league is that the Lakers are wary of boosting their weak half (offense) at the expense of their defense (and their cap sheet) in any potential LaVine deals,” ESPN’s Zach Lowe wrote on December 8.

LaVine has entered the second season of his five-year max extension with the Bulls. He inked a deal worth $215 which puts the Bulls in a rather uncomfortable position.

LaVine is a Klutch Sports client, just like LeBron James and Anthony Davis. He is a 38.2% career 3-point shooter and the Lakers could use someone like him. They still need help with their shooting. If the team makes a move to get him, LaVine will probably be the third player behind LeBron and AD.