Next season, as Chris Paul turns 40 and DeRozan approaches 35, the Lakers may be able to persuade both players to accept an offer to play in a major market and team up with James and Davis to contend for an NBA championship. These are the ideal summertime free agency plans for the Lakers.
The Golden State Warriors might waive Chris Paul before his $30.8 million contract becomes guaranteed on June 28th. Should this happen, Paul would enter the free-agent market, likely prioritizing a championship opportunity over financial considerations. Enter the Los Angeles Lakers, where Paul could finally unite with his close friend LeBron James. This pairing has been long speculated, given their well-documented friendship and mutual respect.
Paul has more benefits from playing in Los Angeles than just the chance to compete for a championship. Paul is still one of the most astute and productive floor generals in the league, despite his advanced age and history of injuries. He averaged 9.2 points and 6.8 assists per game on 37.1% from three this past season despite only playing 26.4 minutes per game in 58 outings.
Ultimately, if Chris Paul becomes available and the Lakers can secure him for a veteran minimum, it would be a low-risk, high-reward move that would give Paul perhaps his best chance at finally winning that elusive NBA title. Another crucial factor is the Lakers’ starting point guard situation. If D’Angelo Russell opts out of his $18.7 million player option and signs elsewhere, the Lakers will have a vacancy in their starting lineup. Paul could seamlessly fill this role, offering a significant upgrade in playmaking and basketball IQ.
According to reports, DeMar DeRozan is amenable to the thought of joining the Los Angeles Lakers, a team he has always admired. LeBron James and Anthony Davis would benefit from DeRozan’s skill set as a high-IQ scorer and ball handler. With his ability to generate offense (5.3 APG) and his impressive scoring skills (24.0 PPG), DeRozan would provide the Lakers a dependable third option.
DeRozan is an ideal fit with James and Davis because of his playmaking, slashing, and mid-range game, all of which he has demonstrated throughout his career. His presence on the floor would alleviate some of the offensive burden from both superstars, allowing them to focus more on their defensive responsibilities and preserving their energy for crucial moments.
DeRozan’s apparent readiness to accept a mid-level offer demonstrates his ambition to lead his team to victory in a major market, putting the success of the team ahead of his own financial gain. DeRozan may take over as the main scorer in games when James or Davis are injured or need a break. Even without their best players, the Lakers would be able to sustain a high level of offensive efficiency thanks to his consistency and dependability in the scoring department.
