<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a></strong> isn’t getting any younger, and the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong> know they need to find him more help to <strong>win another <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championship</strong> before riding into the sunset.</p>



<p><strong>Rob Pelinka</strong> and the front office could only do so much with the current salary cap they have, so they had to let <strong>Mo Bamba and Malik Beasley</strong> go to get some money off their books.</p>



<p>So, now that they could be in play for the non-tax midlevel exception, <strong>Dave McMenamin of ESPN</strong> recently reported that they could go after <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/milwaukee-bucks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milwaukee Bucks</a> star Brook Lopez.</strong></p>



<h2>NBA Rumors: Lakers Could Target Brook Lopez</h2>



<p><em>“Among the players L.A. has interest in signing with the non-tax midlevel are Denver Nuggets forward Bruce Brown and </em><strong><em>Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez, sources told ESPN</em>,” </strong>McMenamin wrote.</p>



<p><em>“The Lakers plan to stay in touch with the representatives of both Bamba and Beasley as free agency unfolds, <strong>however, and could bring back one or both on different contract structures, sources told ESPN,”</strong></em> the report added.</p>



<p>Then again, the Bucks <strong>will be very aggressive to try and get Lopez back</strong>, as he’s been a key contributor to their recent success, and they won’t have more cap space to pursue someone else if he leaves.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-want-to-pair-lebron-james-with-another-nba-champion-20230629-BUS-20054.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230629_BUS_20054_lebron-james-6.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Even though they&apos;ll face steep competition for his services, the Los Angeles Lakers will still pursue an NBA champion in free agency.
" title="Lakers want to pair LeBron James with another NBA champion" publication_id="BUS#20230629#BUS#20054"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-stephen-curry-could-lose-a-warriors-teammate-to-lebron-james-lakers-20230629-BUS-20255.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230629_BUS_20255_Curry-LeBron.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Ahead of the 2023-24 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers could bring help for LeBron James by landing a former teammate of Stephen Curry at the Golden State Warriors.
" title="NBA Rumors: Stephen Curry could lose a Warriors teammate to LeBron James&apos; Lakers" publication_id="BUS#20230629#BUS#20255"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-lakers-have-made-a-decision-on-dangelo-russell-20230628-BUS-19723.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230628_BUS_19723_DAngelo-Russell-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The future of D&apos;Angelo Russell is one of the biggest talking points around the Los Angeles Lakers, and it looks like the team already knows what to do.
" title="NBA Rumors: Lakers have made a decision on D&apos;Angelo Russell" publication_id="BUS#20230628#BUS#19723"></div>


<p>Lopez has already played for the Lakers and is quite familiar with <strong>the perks and demands that come with it, </strong>so he’ll have a big decision to make in the following weeks.</p>


LeBron James' Lakers targeting NBA champion big man

Lakers want to pair LeBron James with another NBA champion

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LeBron James' Lakers targeting NBA champion big man - Bolavip US

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<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong> ended the 2022-23 <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a></strong> season much better than expected. Following a lackluster start, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a></strong> and company ended up reaching the Conference Finals thanks to an impressive resurgence in the second half of the campaign.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-stephen-curry-losing-another-warriors-teammate-apart-from-jordan-poole-20230627-BUS-18936.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230627_BUS_18936_stephen-curry-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Golden State Warriors have already lost Jordan Poole this offseason, but it looks like another player would leave Stephen Curry and company for the 2023-24 NBA season.
" title="NBA News: Stephen Curry losing another Warriors teammate apart from Jordan Poole" publication_id="BUS#20230627#BUS#18936"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-lakers-teammate-addresses-controversial-comment-on-lebron-james-20230628-BUS-19615.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230628_BUS_19615_James-Lakers.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="One of LeBron James&apos; teammates at the Los Angeles Lakers had to set the record straight after making a controversial remark on The King.
" title="NBA News: Lakers teammate addresses controversial comment on LeBron James" publication_id="BUS#20230628#BUS#19615"></div>


<p>Of course, Rob Pelinka deserves credit for reacting just in time before the February deadline. That being said, Nikola Jokic’s Denver Nuggets were too much for James and company, which is why <strong>changes will be made</strong> this offseason.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/jimmy-butler-could-lose-a-heat-teammate-to-lebron-james-lakers-or-kevin-durants-suns-20230630-BUS-20853.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230630_BUS_20853_Jimmy-Butler-vs-Magic.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With NBA free agency drawing nearer, LeBron James&apos; Los Angeles Lakers and Kevin Durant&apos;s Phoenix Suns seem to be interested in a teammate of Jimmy Butler at the Miami Heat.
" title="Jimmy Butler could lose a Heat teammate to LeBron James&apos; Lakers or Kevin Durant&apos;s Suns" publication_id="BUS#20230630#BUS#20853"></div>


<p>Having a deep playoff run is always nice, but at the end of the day, that will never be enough for a franchise like the Lakers. This team wants to succeed, and the front office <strong>has already started to make moves</strong> to make it happen.</p>



<h2>Lakers waive Mo Bamba and Shaquille Harrison</h2>



<p>The Los Angeles Lakers announced Thursday they are waiving center <strong>Mo Bamba</strong> and guard <strong>Shaquille Harrison</strong>. Neither of them had much playing time last season, recording less than 10 appearances each.</p>



<p>Bamba arrived at the February deadline as part of a four-team trade involving the Magic, Clippers and Nuggets. While <strong>injuries stood in his way</strong>, he didn’t see the floor that much even when healthy.</p>



<p>Harrison, on the other hand, joined the team in April ahead of the postseason and made just eight appearances which went practically unnoticed.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-lebron-james-has-a-new-teammate-at-the-lakers-20230630-BUS-21111.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230630_BUS_21111_LeBron-James-9.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly made their first move of the offseason to help LeBron James in the 2023-24 NBA campaign.
" title="NBA News: LeBron James has a new teammate at the Lakers" publication_id="BUS#20230630#BUS#21111"></div>


<h2>James could lose a third Lakers teammate soon</h2>



<p>Another player who could leave LA is <strong>Malik Beasley</strong>, since the purple and gold reportedly have no plans to exercise his $16.5 million team option. Either way, at some point the Lakers will have to start looking to add teammates for LeBron rather than releasing them.</p>


NBA News: LeBron James officially loses two Lakers teammates

NBA News: Lakers teammate addresses controversial comment on LeBron James

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NBA News: LeBron James officially loses two Lakers teammates - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> </strong>were one of the <strong>best teams in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a></strong> after the All-Star break. Despite<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> <strong>LeBron James</strong></a><strong>‘ foot injury</strong>, they still managed to finish the season on a high note.</p>



<p>Notably, a lot of that had to do with <strong>Austin Reaves</strong> breaking out for them. He established himself as a steady contirbutor, and even worked his way up to the starting lineup.</p>



<p>The Lakers are now looking to<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-lakers-make-final-decision-on-austin-reaves-20230628-BUS-19028.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> </a><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-lakers-make-final-decision-on-austin-reaves-20230628-BUS-19028.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">retain him at all costs,</a> </strong>which is why NBA analyst <strong>Colin Cowherd</strong> believes they might be getting a little delusional, going as far as to compare him with <strong>Mac McClung, Patrick Beverley, Kelly Olynyk, and Grayson Allen.</strong></p>



<h2>Colin Cowherd Warns The Lakers About Overpaying For Austin Reaves</h2>



<p><strong><em>“Last two years, he’s been a nice player for the Lakers,” </em></strong>Cowherd said. <em>“Are they getting delusional because they found him? And because he plays well with LeBron, but so did Matthew Dellavedova.”</em></p>



<p><em>“Everybody is loyal to what they find,” </em>Cowherd added. <em><strong>“Are the Lakers falling in love with the kid because they found him at garage sale prices? If you want to be a max player, you have got to show me max qualities.”</strong></em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">"Are the Lakers getting delusional because they found him?"<br><br>— <a href="https://twitter.com/ColinCowherd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ColinCowherd</a> plays the blind resume game with Austin Reaves <a href="https://t.co/CAqw51WYEI">pic.twitter.com/CAqw51WYEI</a></p>— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHerd/status/1674094520940789760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-lakers-land-potential-replacement-for-austin-reaves-20230627-BUS-18403.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230627_BUS_18403_Austin-Reaves-1-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Since Austin Reaves will hit the open market ahead of the 2023-24 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly preparing for a hypothetical departure of the guard.
" title="NBA Rumors: Lakers land potential replacement for Austin Reaves" publication_id="BUS#20230627#BUS#18403"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-draft-2023-who-is-the-rookie-the-lakers-picked-to-play-alongside-lebron-james-20230623-BUS-16196.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230623_BUS_16196_Hood-Schifino.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The second half of the season was an indication that LeBron James still can lead a team to the championship. With that in mind, the Los Angeles Lakers picked Jalen Hood-Schifino to continue their growth.
" title="NBA Draft 2023: Who is the rookie the Lakers picked to play alongside LeBron James?" publication_id="BUS#20230623#BUS#16196"></div>


<p>As good as Reaves has been for them, they also need to add some more quality pieces to their current roster, and maybe committing that much money to him <strong>won’t be the wisest bet.</strong></p>


Colin Cowherd takes a huge shot at 'delusional' Lakers over Austin Reaves contract

NBA Draft 2023: Who is the rookie the Lakers picked to play alongside LeBron James?

Colin Cowherd takes a huge shot at 'delusional' Lakers over Austin Reaves contract - Bolavip US

<p>Neither the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong> nor the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors">Golden State Warriors</a></strong> could compete against Nikola Jokic’s Denver Nuggets this season. But as long as they have <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a></strong> and <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry">Stephen Curry</a></strong>, respectively, they’ll continue to be candidates to win the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a></strong> championship.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-warriors-make-their-first-official-move-to-help-stephen-curry-20230619-BUS-13899.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230619_BUS_13899_Stephen-Curry-playoffs-2023.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The 2023-24 NBA season is still months away from us, but the Golden State Warriors have already made an important move to help Stephen Curry succeed.
" title="NBA News: Warriors make their first official move to help Stephen Curry" publication_id="BUS#20230619#BUS#13899"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-lebron-james-lakers-officially-lose-a-member-to-kevin-durants-suns-20230623-BUS-16535.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230623_BUS_16535_LeBron-James-and-Kevin-Durant.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="While LeBron James contemplates his future, a Los Angeles Lakers member has officially left the team for Kevin Durant&apos;s Phoenix Suns.
" title="NBA News: LeBron James&apos; Lakers officially lose a member to Kevin Durant&apos;s Suns" publication_id="BUS#20230623#BUS#16535"></div>


<p>However, they cannot do everything on their own, especially <strong>after so many years</strong> in the league. Therefore, while the Dubs have already made moves to improve around Steph, Rob Pelinka is busy trying to help The King get further next year.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-lebron-james-officially-loses-two-lakers-teammates-20230629-BUS-20335.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230629_BUS_20335_LeBron-James-December-2022.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Two teammates of LeBron James at the Los Angeles Lakers are officially leaving the team ahead of the 2023-24 NBA season.
" title="NBA News: LeBron James officially loses two Lakers teammates" publication_id="BUS#20230629#BUS#20335"></div>


<p>The Lakers not only need to go after another star, but they also have to make sure they have <strong>the right rotation</strong> for a very demanding year. And one of their depth moves could mean landing a former teammate of Curry in the Bay area.</p>



<h2>Rumor: Lakers could be interested in Donte DiVincenzo</h2>



<p>According to Brett Siegel of <em>ClutchPoints</em>, the Los Angeles Lakers are among a group of teams who could sign <strong>Donte DiVincenzo</strong>, who is set to become a free agent after spending the last season with Curry in San Francisco:</p>



<p><em>“DiVincenzo opted out of his $4.7 million player option with the Warriors and is expected to receive offers from teams utilizing most of their mid-level exception, if not all of it. <strong>The Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks and Cavaliers have been mentioned as possible suitors for DiVincenzo</strong>, sources said, with the New York Knicks also coming up in multiple reports around the league.”</em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-stephen-curry-losing-another-warriors-teammate-apart-from-jordan-poole-20230627-BUS-18936.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230627_BUS_18936_stephen-curry-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Golden State Warriors have already lost Jordan Poole this offseason, but it looks like another player would leave Stephen Curry and company for the 2023-24 NBA season.
" title="NBA News: Stephen Curry losing another Warriors teammate apart from Jordan Poole" publication_id="BUS#20230627#BUS#18936"></div>


<p>At 26, DiVincenzo can still be a useful rotational piece for a team that needs depth. His time with the Warriors may be over, but he’s <strong>expected to have many suitors</strong> in the open market.</p>


NBA Rumors: Stephen Curry could lose a Warriors teammate to LeBron James' Lakers

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NBA Rumors: Stephen Curry could lose a Warriors teammate to LeBron James' Lakers - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong> want to win another <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championship</strong> while<strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> LeBron James</a></strong> is still on board. Needless to say, that’s going to be easier said than done in today’s stacked Western Conference.</p>



<p><strong>Rob Pelinka</strong> and the front office will have limited cap space to deal with in the offseason, and keeping their key free agents on the team will be their No. 1 priority.</p>



<p>Nonethlees, that doesn’t mean they won’t be active in the market trying to revamp their defense. With that in mind, <strong>Mike Singer of The Denver Post</strong> reports that they’re interested in <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Nuggets</a> star Bruce Brown Jr.</strong></p>



<h2>Lakers Are Interested In Bruce Brown Jr.</h2>



<p><strong><em>“One team with significant interest in signing Bruce Brown away from Denver is the Los Angeles Lakers, multiple sources told the Denver Post,” </em></strong>Singer tweeted. <em>“The Lakers could offer him the full MLE ($12.3M annually). Nuggets can only offer up to $7.8M this year.”</em></p>



<p>Notably, Lakers insider <strong>Dan Woike of the L.A</strong>. Times later confirmed the report, citing that Brown is the kind of player Pelinka would ‘most definitely’ pursue in free agency:</p>



<p>“<em>The Lakers getting to (and using) the full MLE has been an option the team has strongly considered in recent days,” </em>Woike said. <strong><em>“Bruce Brown is most definitely the kind of player they’d want from a mindset/skill department.”</em></strong></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/rob-pelinka-reveals-the-lakers-plans-for-free-agency-20230628-BUS-19407.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230628_BUS_19407_rob-pelinka-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Los Angeles Lakers GM Rob Pelinka has made it clear what he&apos;ll be looking for to reinforce the team in the offseason.
" title="Rob Pelinka reveals the Lakers&apos; plans for free agency" publication_id="BUS#20230628#BUS#19407"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-could-leave-the-lakers-because-of-bronny-20230628-BUS-19419.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230628_BUS_19419_lebron-james-and-bronny-james-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With his older son, Bronny, set to make the league next season, the Atlanta Hawks could make it 2 for 1 and land LeBron James as well.
" title="LeBron James could leave the Lakers because of Bronny" publication_id="BUS#20230628#BUS#19419"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-already-have-a-replacement-for-austin-reaves-20230627-BUS-18504.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230627_BUS_18504_austin-reaves-4.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Los Angeles Lakers want to bring back Austin Reaves at all costs, but they know they might still have to part ways with him this offseason.
" title="Lakers already have a replacement for Austin Reaves" publication_id="BUS#20230627#BUS#18504"></div>


<p>Even so, the Lakers could face an uphill battle trying to convince Brown to sign with them, as multiple teams are likely to make him more lucrative offers, with experts projecting around <strong>$20 million per season.</strong></p>


Lakers already have a replacement for Austin Reaves

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Lakers want to pair LeBron James with another NBA champion - Bolavip US

<p>Only a few years after being traded by the team, <strong>D’Angelo Russell</strong> returned to the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong> before the February trade deadline. Unlike his previous stint, the guard proved his worth and helped the team make the 2023 <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a></strong> playoffs.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-sign-key-piece-to-retain-lebron-james-20230628-BUS-19388.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230628_BUS_19388_lebronjames-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Los Angeles Lakers have started to make big moves for LeBron James in a very crowded Western Conference.
" title="Los Angeles Lakers sign key player to help LeBron James" publication_id="BUS#20230628#BUS#19388"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-lebron-james-lakers-officially-lose-a-member-to-kevin-durants-suns-20230623-BUS-16535.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230623_BUS_16535_LeBron-James-and-Kevin-Durant.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="While LeBron James contemplates his future, a Los Angeles Lakers member has officially left the team for Kevin Durant&apos;s Phoenix Suns.
" title="NBA News: LeBron James&apos; Lakers officially lose a member to Kevin Durant&apos;s Suns" publication_id="BUS#20230623#BUS#16535"></div>


<p>Russell <strong>proved to be an improvement</strong> in a position where <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/russell-westbrook">Russell Westbrook</a> had struggled, but unfortunately, he left much to be desired in the postseason. Therefore, his future in LA seemed to be up in the air.</p>



<p>The 27-year-old becomes an unrestricted free agent this offseason, and many wonder whether the purple and gold will try to bring him back. According to reports, <strong>that’s exactly</strong> what they plan to do.</p>



<h2>Rumor: Lakers would re-sign D’Angelo Russell</h2>



<p>“<em><strong>When league insiders speak about next year’s team, D’Angelo Russell is usually included</strong></em>,” reports Dan Woike of the <em>Los Angeles Times. “He’ll hit unrestricted free agency after a disappointing conference final, <strong>but his value to the Lakers extends beyond the team having his Bird rights, which allows them to re-sign a player while exceeding the salary cap</strong>. He had enough big moments in the postseason and in the push to the playoffs, when he wasn’t fighting injuries, for the team to re-sign him.”</em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-lakers-teammate-addresses-controversial-comment-on-lebron-james-20230628-BUS-19615.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230628_BUS_19615_James-Lakers.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="One of LeBron James&apos; teammates at the Los Angeles Lakers had to set the record straight after making a controversial remark on The King.
" title="NBA News: Lakers teammate addresses controversial comment on LeBron James" publication_id="BUS#20230628#BUS#19615"></div>


<p>Russell may have not performed as expected during the playoffs, but he certainly played a pivotal role in the Lakers’ resurgence in the second half of the season. Therefore, <strong>it would make sense</strong> if they run things back with him.</p>


Los Angeles Lakers sign key player to help LeBron James

NBA Rumors: Lakers have made a decision on D'Angelo Russell - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-lebron-james-lakers-officially-lose-a-member-to-kevin-durants-suns-20230623-BUS-16535.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230623_BUS_16535_LeBron-James-and-Kevin-Durant.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="While LeBron James contemplates his future, a Los Angeles Lakers member has officially left the team for Kevin Durant&apos;s Phoenix Suns.
" title="NBA News: LeBron James&apos; Lakers officially lose a member to Kevin Durant&apos;s Suns" publication_id="BUS#20230623#BUS#16535"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-could-leave-the-lakers-because-of-bronny-20230628-BUS-19419.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230628_BUS_19419_lebron-james-and-bronny-james-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With his older son, Bronny, set to make the league next season, the Atlanta Hawks could make it 2 for 1 and land LeBron James as well.
" title="LeBron James could leave the Lakers because of Bronny" publication_id="BUS#20230628#BUS#19419"></div>


<p>Even though we’re talking about one of the greatest players of all time, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a></strong> still has his fair share of haters around the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a></strong>. Even so, the<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong> superstar will always have his fans right there to stand up for him.</p>



<p>Whenever <em>The King</em> is questioned, regardless of who makes that comment or when, we will immediately see those who admire James firing back. One of his teammates learned that first hand <strong>by accident</strong>.</p>



<p>We’re talking about <strong>Jalen Hood-Schifino</strong>, who has just been drafted by the Lakers 17th overall. “<em><strong>I saw that … and was like, ‘Dang, LeBron’s old!</strong></em>’” he said in regard to the fact that he was just seven days old when LeBron was drafted by the Cavaliers in 2003. His comments didn’t sit well with James’ fans, which is why the rookie <strong>later set the record straight.</strong></p>



<h2>Jalen Hood-Schifino clarifies controversial remark about LeBron James</h2>



<p><em>“<strong>I would never disrespect LeBron</strong>,”</em> Hood-Schifino said on Instagram, via <em>ClutchPoints</em>. “<em><strong>He’s one of the best players to ever play this game and I’m blessed to be able to play alongside him! If anything, I’m giving him praise for what he’s doing at his age.”</strong></em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-sign-key-piece-to-retain-lebron-james-20230628-BUS-19388.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230628_BUS_19388_lebronjames-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Los Angeles Lakers have started to make big moves for LeBron James in a very crowded Western Conference.
" title="NBA News: Los Angeles Lakers sign key piece to retain LeBron James" publication_id="BUS#20230628#BUS#19388"></div>


<p>It’s safe to say Hood-Schifino <strong>didn’t mean to disrespect</strong> LeBron, but in the era of social media, things can get blown out of proportion. Hopefully, this will be nothing but water under the bridge sooner rather than later.</p>


LeBron James could leave the Lakers because of Bronny

NBA News: Lakers teammate addresses controversial comment on LeBron James - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong> knocked on the door of <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a></strong> championship contention last season. Even with <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> struggling with a foot injury, </strong>they were quite close.</p>



<p>But he’s not getting any younger, and last season proved that<strong> he needs more help than ever</strong>. That’s why they need to be quite careful with every single move they make.</p>



<p>With that in mind,<strong> Lakers GM Rob Pelinka</strong> addressed the media to discuss his plans and priorities for the team’s offseason, stating that keeping their core together was at the top of their agenda.</p>



<h2>NBA Rumors: Lakers Will Keep Most Of Their Core</h2>



<p><em>“We’ve been pretty clear since our last game, with the s</em>uccess of making it to the <em>Western Conference finals,<strong> we want to try our hardest to keep our core of guys together and also improve around the edges and on the margins to not only get back to where we were last year but hopefully take the next step</strong>, get into the NBA Finals,”</em> the GM said.</p>



<p><strong><em>“We want to try our hardest to keep this core together,”</em></strong> Pelinka added, stating that they will pursue <em>“guys that play tough-minded basketball, that play defense, that play the right way.”</em></p>



<p>The Lakers won’t have that much cap space to operate with, but it’s not like they need to do some major tweaks to their roster anyway, so it’ll be interesting to see <strong>what Pelinka does in the next couple of months.</strong></p>


Rob Pelinka reveals the Lakers' plans for free agency - Bolavip US

<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> </strong>hinted at retiring and <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> fans sounded off the alarms. </strong>But that’s not happening; he’s just not walking away from the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a></strong> after being swept.</p>



<p>James has made it loud and clear that he wants to play with <strong>Bronny,</strong> his older son. He recently committed to USC, and will be eligible to declare for the 2024 NBA Draft.</p>



<p>Notably, James has been keeping tabs on his heir’s draft stock, and he recently <strong>teased a move to the </strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta%C2%A0hawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Atlanta Hawks</strong> </a>after they were projected to take Bronny next season.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="595" height="1024" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/06/28113605/FzrX9E3acAA4_oS-595x1024-595x1024.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-19429" sizes="(max-width: 595px) 100vw, 595px"></figure></div><figcaption>via LeBron James</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Hawks Are Clearing Cap Space</h2>



<p>Notably, and perhaps coincidentally, the Hawks are expected to go through a major roster overhaul soon, as they hinted by dumping<strong> John Collins</strong> to get rid of his salary:</p>



<p><em><strong>“The Hawks have many veteran players available in trade discussions. Virtually everybody among their veterans, except for Trae Young</strong>, have really been part of {trade talks} for the Hawks,”</em> reported Evan Sidery. </p>



<p><em>“Two players who fit this criteria are Clint Capela and De’Andre Hunter. Woj also mentioned yesterday <strong>Atlanta wants to work on long-term extensions for Dejounte Murray, Onyeka Okongwu, and Saddiq Bey,”</strong> </em>he added.</p>



<p>Of course, <strong>a lot of things can happen</strong>. Bronny could rise or slip in the Draft, and the Hawks might not even get that pick. But James wants to play with his firstborn, and they could have enough money to make it happen.</p>


LeBron James could leave the Lakers because of Bronny - Bolavip US

<p><strong>LeBron James</strong>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong>&nbsp;had an amazing playoff run last season as a No.7 seed in the Western Conference. However, they couldn’t reach the <strong>NBA Finals</strong> after being eliminate by the&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Nuggets</a></strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>Nikola Jokic</strong>.</p>



<p>Now, the big problem in the quest for a championship ring is the star caliber rosters formed by other teams. <strong>Chris Paul</strong> will play for the Warriors, <strong>Bradley Beal</strong> with the Suns and <strong>Marcus Smart</strong> has arrived to Memphis.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/victor-wembanyama-picks-lebron-james-and-stephen-curry-in-top-5-players-of-all-time-20230625-BUS-17712.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230625_BUS_17712_victorwembanyama-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Victor Wembanyama picked his Top 5 NBA greatest players of all time to defeat the Monstars of Space Jam in an epic matchup.
" title="LeBron James and Stephen Curry: Victor Wembanyama&apos;s shocking Top 5 players of all time" publication_id="BUS#20230625#BUS#17712"></div>


<p>Considering <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a></strong> could be <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-receives-incredible-message-from-lakers-about-nba-retirement-20230524-BUS-3503.html">close to retirement</a></strong>, the Lakers have to make some moves for him to stay. Now, after so many <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/bradley-beal-and-chris-paul-are-part-of-a-blockbuster-trade-between-wizards-and-suns-20230618-BUS-13402.html">blockbuster trades</a></strong> in the <strong>NBA</strong>, the process has started. </p>



<h2>Jarred Vanderbilt will stay with the Los Angeles Lakers</h2>



<p>According to a report from Dave McMenamin, the <strong>Lakers</strong> are ready to exercise the $4.7 million team option for <strong>Jarred Vanderbilt</strong>. That locks him with Los Angeles for the 2023-2024 season and, after the first days of September, the forward will be eligible to receive a four-year contract extension of almost $70 million.  </p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-remains-silent-after-blockbuster-trades-in-nba-20230623-BUS-16505.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230623_BUS_16505_lebronjames-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="While many teams are making big moves in the NBA, the Los Angeles Lakers have been quiet though LeBron James might need help.
" title="LeBron James and Los Angeles Lakers remain &apos;silent&apos; after blockbuster trades" publication_id="BUS#20230623#BUS#16505"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-emotional-reaction-after-son-bronny-james-confirms-usc-number-20230623-BUS-16361.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230623_BUS_16361_lebronjames.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Bronny James just announced the number he&apos;ll wear at USC and LeBron James couldn&apos;t believe it. 
" title="LeBron James&apos; heartfelt message for Bronny after his son picks special number at USC" publication_id="BUS#20230623#BUS#16361"></div>


<p>Vanderbilt is only 24-years old and has become a tremendous prospect. Furthermore, the <strong>Lakers</strong> already announced that they extended qualifying offers to <strong>Rui Hachimura</strong> and <strong>Austin Reaves</strong>. As a result of that, both become restricted free agents, but, it’s almost certain they’ll stay.</p>



<p>Now, the big question is <strong>LeBron James</strong>. After Game 4 against the&nbsp;<strong>Denver Nuggets</strong>, he wasn’t sure about his future. <em>“We’ll see what happens going forward. I don’t know.&nbsp;<strong>I have a lot to think about to be honest.</strong>&nbsp;Just for me personally going forward in the game of basketball. I have a lot to think about.”</em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/scottie-pippen-says-michael-jordan-was-a-horrible-player-while-praising-lebron-james-20230527-BUS-4285.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230527_BUS_4285_michaeljordan.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="In a shocking turn of events, Scottie Pippen went all-in against Michael Jordan. Read here to check out the details. 
" title="Michael Jordan or LeBron James: Who&apos;s the greatest of all time for Scottie Pippen?" publication_id="BUS#20230527#BUS#4285"></div>


<p>Of course, a massive factor could be his son, <strong>Bronny James</strong>, as LeBron might wait two years to play alongside him in the<strong> NBA</strong> after his college career at USC. <em>“<strong>Just because that’s my aspiration and my goal (to play with him), it doesn’t mean it’s his.</strong>&nbsp;My job is to support my son whatever he wants to do.”</em></p>


NBA News: Lakers sign key piece for LeBron James

LeBron James' heartfelt message for Bronny after his son picks special number at USC

LeBron James and Los Angeles Lakers remain 'silent' after blockbuster trades

NBA News: Lakers sign key piece for LeBron James - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-draft-2023-who-is-the-rookie-the-lakers-picked-to-play-alongside-lebron-james-20230623-BUS-16196.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230623_BUS_16196_Hood-Schifino.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The second half of the season was an indication that LeBron James still can lead a team to the championship. With that in mind, the Los Angeles Lakers picked Jalen Hood-Schifino to continue their growth.
" title="NBA Draft 2023: Who is the rookie the Lakers picked to play alongside LeBron James?" publication_id="BUS#20230623#BUS#16196"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/former-champion-with-the-lakers-might-play-for-the-sacramento-kings-20230627-BUS-18722.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230627_BUS_18722_Mike-Brown.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="A great surprise in the league last season were the Sacramento Kings. Their young core took a step forward to finish third in the West, but they might add a former champion with the Lakers to improve in the playoffs.
" title="Former champion with the Lakers might play for the Sacramento Kings" publication_id="BUS#20230627#BUS#18722"></div>


<p>The<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong> are at a crucial juncture as free agency approaches. Following a season marked by roster changes to support<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a></strong>, the team now faces the challenge of retaining key players like<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/austin-reaves">Austin Reaves</a></strong> and<strong> Rui Hachimura</strong>, both of whom are set to become free agents.</p>



<p>Despite being swept by the<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Denver Nuggets</a></strong> in the Western Conference Finals, the Lakers showed noticeable improvement throughout the season. LeBron reaffirmed his status as a premier player, forming an unstoppable partnership with<strong> Anthony Davis</strong> when the center is healthy.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-lakers-make-final-decision-on-austin-reaves-20230628-BUS-19028.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230628_BUS_19028_Austin-Reaves-5.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Lakers found a gem in Austin Reaves, who was a reliable player that helped LeBron James mostly in the playoffs. However, he is set to become a free agent.
" title="Lebron James’ Lakers make final decision on Austin Reaves" publication_id="BUS#20230628#BUS#19028"></div>


<p>Looking ahead, Lakers general manager<strong> Rob Pelinka</strong> has emphasized the importance of strategic moves in free agency to strengthen the roster. Pelinka himself shared the team’s offseason plan in the rookies’ introductory press conference.</p>



<h2>Rob Pelinka addresses Lakers’ free agency</h2>



<p>The moves made at the trade deadline were the reason why<strong> the Lakers turned around what was destined to be a disastrous season</strong>. That’s why the main goal for the front office is to keep most of their players in the current roster.</p>



<p>“<strong>We want to try our hardest to keep this core of guys together</strong> and also improve around the edges and on the margins to not only get back to where we were last year but hopefully take the next step and get into the NBA Finals. We believe in the proof of concept of this group, and we saw defensively what we were able to do to finish the season out. I think defense and rebounding wins championships. We want to lean into that”, Pelinka said according to Dave McMenamin of ESPN.</p>



<p>Lakers’ general manager provided some more insight on what their approach regarding free agents is going to be: “<strong>If there’s a way we can improve the roster, of course we’re going to do that</strong>. I think probably less focus of, ‘Hey, what is Team X or Team Y doing?’ And more focus on, ‘How can we optimize us?&apos;”.</p>


Lakers GM Rob Pelinka shares free agency plans for LeBron James’ team

Former champion with the Lakers might play for the Sacramento Kings

Lakers GM Rob Pelinka shares free agency plans for LeBron James’ team - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/former-champion-with-the-lakers-might-play-for-the-sacramento-kings-20230627-BUS-18722.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230627_BUS_18722_Mike-Brown.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="A great surprise in the league last season were the Sacramento Kings. Their young core took a step forward to finish third in the West, but they might add a former champion with the Lakers to improve in the playoffs.
" title="Former champion with the Lakers might play for the Sacramento Kings" publication_id="BUS#20230627#BUS#18722"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-draft-2023-who-is-the-rookie-the-lakers-picked-to-play-alongside-lebron-james-20230623-BUS-16196.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230623_BUS_16196_Hood-Schifino.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The second half of the season was an indication that LeBron James still can lead a team to the championship. With that in mind, the Los Angeles Lakers picked Jalen Hood-Schifino to continue their growth.
" title="NBA Draft 2023: Who is the rookie the Lakers picked to play alongside LeBron James?" publication_id="BUS#20230623#BUS#16196"></div>


<p>There are big decisions to make for the<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong> once free agency opens. Last season they had to change most of their roster at the trade deadline to help<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a></strong>, so they can’t afford to lose players like<strong> Austin Reaves</strong> for nothing.</p>



<p>Reaves emerged as a great third option behind James and<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis">Anthony Davis</a></strong>, especially in the postseason. With<strong> D’Angelo Russell</strong> unable to remain as a primary option, he stepped up in their way to the Western Conference Finals.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-lakers-land-potential-replacement-for-austin-reaves-20230627-BUS-18403.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230627_BUS_18403_Austin-Reaves-1-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Since Austin Reaves will hit the open market ahead of the 2023-24 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly preparing for a hypothetical departure of the guard.
" title="NBA Rumors: Lakers land potential replacement for Austin Reaves" publication_id="BUS#20230627#BUS#18403"></div>


<p>However, he can leave this summer. The Lakers announced on Tuesday <strong>they have officially extended qualifying offers to Rui Hachimura (7.7M) and Reaves (2.2M)</strong>, so they are going to become<strong> </strong>restricted free agents.</p>



<h2>The Lakers could reportedly pay up to 100M for Reaves</h2>



<p>Ideally, the Lakers wouldn’t have to compete to retain the player. If that’s the case,<strong> they could offer him a four-year deal worth 54 million dollars</strong>. However, it doesn’t seem likely that Reaves won’t have any other suitors.</p>



<p>Considering his ascension late in the season, there are teams that might be ready to put Los Angeles in trouble.<strong> Being just a restricted free agent means the Lakers could match any offer</strong>, something they might be willing to do.</p>



<p><strong>The Lakers are reportedly ready to offer Reaves a contract of up to 100 million dollars</strong>. A four-year contract for that price might be their limit, according to what Jovan Buha of The Athletic recently said on The HoopsHype Podcast. What the potential new deal means is that the front office is going to make sure LeBron doesn’t lose one of the most important players in the team.</p>


Lebron James’ Lakers make final decisions on Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura

Lebron James’ Lakers make final decisions on Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-lakers-land-potential-replacement-for-austin-reaves-20230627-BUS-18403.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230627_BUS_18403_Austin-Reaves-1-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Since Austin Reaves will hit the open market ahead of the 2023-24 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly preparing for a hypothetical departure of the guard.
" title="NBA Rumors: Lakers land potential replacement for Austin Reaves" publication_id="BUS#20230627#BUS#18403"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-lakers-could-lose-two-stars-to-the-rockets-20230626-BUS-18156.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230626_BUS_18156_lebron-james-5.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers need to take care of their free agents before the Houston Rockets pry them away from Southern California.
" title="LeBron James&apos; Lakers could lose two stars to the Rockets" publication_id="BUS#20230626#BUS#18156"></div>


<p>There has been a major improvement in one season for the<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sacramento-kings">Sacramento Kings</a></strong>. After years of irrelevant play, they finally found their way under the Coach of the Year<strong> Mike Brown</strong> to maximize their talented roster.</p>



<p><strong>De’Andre Fox</strong> has always been a player with huge potential surrounded by an underwhelming cast. However, that changed dramatically last season. The trade for<strong> Domanta Sabonis</strong> in 2022 was complemented by the recent hiring of a great coach to get them near their real ceiling.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-lebron-james-lakers-officially-lose-a-member-to-kevin-durants-suns-20230623-BUS-16535.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230623_BUS_16535_LeBron-James-and-Kevin-Durant.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="While LeBron James contemplates his future, a Los Angeles Lakers member has officially left the team for Kevin Durant&apos;s Phoenix Suns.
" title="NBA News: LeBron James&apos; Lakers officially lose a member to Kevin Durant&apos;s Suns" publication_id="BUS#20230623#BUS#16535"></div>


<p>Sacramento had a very early exit from the playoffs losing to the<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors">Golden State Warriors</a></strong> in the first round, but the regular season was great. The third place they got in the Western Conference was a sample of what they can do. Now they might add a champion to the mix.</p>



<h2>The Sacramento Kings might land Kyle Kuzma</h2>



<p>Being eliminated in the first round was disappointing considering the Kings were the third seeded team. However, that had a lot to do with facing an unstoppable<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry">Stephen Curry</a></strong>. But taking them to Game 7 showed they only need a couple of depth pieces to make a deep postseason run.</p>



<p><strong>Kyle Kuzma </strong>declined his player option with the Washington Wizards, so he is going to be an unrestricted free agent. The Kings targeting him has “gained plenty of momentum”, according to Jake Fisher of Yahoo Sports. The salary is something that remains unknown, but it has to be mentioned that the year remaining on his contract that he rejected was worth 13M.</p>



<p>Kuzma has very meaningful experience despite being just 27 years old. He was a<strong> champion</strong> with the<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong> in the bubble during the 2019-2020 season. Another enticing aspect in his resume is having played next to<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a></strong>, something that could help for close games.</p>


LeBron James' Lakers could lose two stars to the Rockets

NBA Rumors: Lakers land potential replacement for Austin Reaves

Former champion with the Lakers might play for the Sacramento Kings - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> </strong>were one of the best teams in the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a></strong> after the trade deadline. Even without<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a>, Darvin Ham’s </strong>team was able to hold it’s own more often than not.</p>



<p>But as good as their reinforcements were, a lot of that also had to do with a guy who was already there and<strong> worked his way up the rotation</strong>, and that guy is Austin Reaves.</p>



<p>Reaves has now gauged plenty of league-wide interest, with the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston Rockets </a></strong>as a potential destination. With that in mind, the Lakers had no choice but to draft <strong>Jalen Hood-Schifino</strong> as an insurance policy.</p>



<h2>Lakers Drafted Jalen Hood-Schifino As Potential Austin Reaves Replacement</h2>



<p><strong>(Transcript via Lakers Nation)</strong></p>



<p><em>“The reason the Lakers were so high on both guards is <strong>they saw them as potential replacements for Reaves </strong>should an offer sheet price them out of bringing the restricted free agent back, league sources tell Lakers Nation.</em></p>



<p><strong>(…)</strong></p>



<p><em>If he does get a max offer though then the Lakers will need to make a decision on whether they want to match it, which could get tricky considering how many other free agents they need to pay and the nature of the new CB<strong>A. For those reasons, the Lakers were targeting guards with the 17th pick and may have drafted Reaves’ potential replacement in Hood-Schifino.”</strong></em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-lakers-could-lose-two-stars-to-the-rockets-20230626-BUS-18156.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230626_BUS_18156_lebron-james-5.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers need to take care of their free agents before the Houston Rockets pry them away from Southern California.
" title="LeBron James&apos; Lakers could lose two stars to the Rockets" publication_id="BUS#20230626#BUS#18156"></div>


<p>Even so, all signs point toward the<strong> Lakers re-signing Reaves,</strong> as he has also expressed an interest in staying in Los Angeles. But if that’s not the case, then it’s nice to know they already have a plan B.</p>


Lakers already have a replacement for Austin Reaves - Bolavip US

<p>The<strong> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a></strong> had a very positive season, even if they couldn’t reach the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a></strong> Finals. The biggest takeaway is that they’ve finally been competitive, with many players turning up their level. <strong>Austin Reaves</strong>, for instance, had a breakout year.</p>



<p>The guard stepped up in incredible ways, establishing himself in the starting lineup and proving to be a key contributor alongside <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> and Anthony Davis. That’s why the team is <strong>concerned about his future</strong>.</p>



<p>Reaves is set to become a restricted free agent, and he’s already been linked with other teams. Therefore, it looks like the Lakers <strong>have already prepared themselves for a potential departure</strong> of the 25-year-old.</p>



<h2>Rumor: Lakers drafted Jalen Hood-Schifino in case Austin Reaves leaves</h2>



<p>According to <em>Lakers Nation</em>, the Los Angeles Lakers selected <strong>Jalen Hood-Schifino</strong> with the 17th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft as a possible replacement for Reaves, who <strong>may receive better offer</strong>s in the open market.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-lakers-could-lose-two-stars-to-the-rockets-20230626-BUS-18156.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230626_BUS_18156_lebron-james-5.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers need to take care of their free agents before the Houston Rockets pry them away from Southern California.
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        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-remains-silent-after-blockbuster-trades-in-nba-20230623-BUS-16505.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230623_BUS_16505_lebronjames-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="While many teams are making big moves in the NBA, the Los Angeles Lakers have been quiet though LeBron James might need help.
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        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="" image="" excerpt="" title="" publication_id=""></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-lebron-james-lakers-officially-lose-a-member-to-kevin-durants-suns-20230623-BUS-16535.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230623_BUS_16535_LeBron-James-and-Kevin-Durant.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="While LeBron James contemplates his future, a Los Angeles Lakers member has officially left the team for Kevin Durant&apos;s Phoenix Suns.
" title="NBA News: LeBron James&apos; Lakers officially lose a member to Kevin Durant&apos;s Suns" publication_id="BUS#20230623#BUS#16535"></div>


<p>Apart from the Indiana University product, the purple and gold reportedly had guard Kobe Bufkin, who was selected by Atlanta with the 15th pick, on their radar as well. Reaves will not be missing suitors, which is why the Lakers are <strong>contemplating every possible scenario</strong>.</p>


LeBron James remains silent with Lakers after blockbuster trades

NBA Rumors: Lakers land potential replacement for Austin Reaves - Bolavip US

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