The Los Angeles Lakers put forth a tremendous effort to make it to the playoffs and win the championship last season. Unfortunately, they were defeated by the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the NBA playoffs. Following their elimination, the Lakers took some strict measures, beginning with the dismissal of head coach Darvin Ham. After an extensive search, they reached an agreement with JJ Redick to become the new head coach.
The Lakers then sought to enhance their roster by pursuing several star players for the upcoming season. However, most of their trade offers were turned down, with Klay Thompson rejecting the Lakers’ proposal and joining the Dallas Mavericks instead. As a result, Dalton Knecht and Bronny James were the only additions to the team’s roster. Additionally, a report surfaced revealing that GM Rob Pelinka had six main targets this offseason, all of which ultimately fell through.
“All summer, Pelinka’s primary trade targets were: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers, Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards, Bruce Brown, Toronto Raptors, Cameron Johnson and Dorian Finney-Smith, Brooklyn Nets, Wendell Carter Jr., Orlando Magic.” Lakers insider Anthony Irwin wrote in his latest reports.
Lakers insider explained that Pelinka’s primary trade targets included some of the incredible talents from several NBA teams.
Irwin Explained That the Lakers’ GM Might Need to Implement Significant Changes
The Lakers have extended LeBron James’ contract and also drafted his son Bronny in the 2024 NBA draft. They will make history as the first father-son duo to be on the same NBA team at the same time. Insiders have suggested that Lakers’ general manager Rob Pelinka might need to make significant moves, such as adding star players to support James and Anthony Davis.
“For years, fans have decried a “Lakers tax” that raises asking prices in trade negotiations. While it’s certainly true teams don’t like helping the Lakers if they can avoid it, league sources say the focus is more on getting the Lakers to pay up with the understanding eventually Pelinka will have to save his job with some kind of move.” Anthony Irwin added.
Despite all the trade rejections, the Lakers will need to find a way to upgrade their roster to dominate next season.
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