Published 09/27/2022, 8:30 PM EDT
As soon as the final buzzer of the season sounded, the Los Angeles Lakers had redemption on their mind. They were coming off arguably one of the worst seasons in franchise history. A team full of future Hall of Famers was stopped within the regular season. Likewise, fans expected the shape of the franchise to change completely. Surprisingly, the conservative approach of the purple and gold held them back from doing so.
After last season, the Lakers were on the market looking for the right trade for Russell Westbrook. The former MVP’s value was no more the same. Teams were demanding security to accept the Brodie. The 17-time champions were left with the sole option of putting their draft picks on the line. However, offers from the Indiana Pacers and others were not convincing enough for Rob Pelinka to go all out.
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But that doesn’t mean there were no exceptions. According to former Lakers reporter Dave McMenamin, the 2020 champions were willing to give up their picks to team up LeBron James with Kyrie Irving or Donovan Mitchell.
The Lakers would have done anything for Kyrie Irving
As the trade talks for Westbrook heated up, one name came to the front, Kyrie Irving. The purple and gold looked to be the next destination for KAI. A perfect replacement was in order. However, the deal never got through. On the other hand, Donovan Mitchell was one of the hottest stars on the market. His fallout with the Utah Jazz had opened up all the doors. Likewise, the Los Angeles Lakers wanted the three-time All-Star.
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As it turns out, these were the only two stars who they were willing to give up their precious unprotected picks for. But destiny and luck never sided with the Lakers. Russell Westbrook remains the point guard of the franchise, while Irving and Mitchell have set foot on their own path.
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Nov 2, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) reacts with guard Russell Westbrook (0) after his basket scored against the Houston Rockets during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Away from the City of Angels, Kyrie opted into his final season with the Brooklyn Nets. Despite the initial drama of the offseason, Irving and Kevin Durant are both determined to play together. While it might just be the final time, the seven-time All-Star has his legacy to defend. On the other hand, Mitchell’s move to the Cleveland Cavaliers has shifted the power scales completely. The Cavs now have one of the finest young cores in today’s NBA. Arguably, the franchise hasn’t looked better since the days of LeBron James.
As for the Lakers, their biggest signings have been Patrick Beverley and Dennis Schroder. While there are only slight changes in the look, the mindset is different. Last season they disappointed as the favorites. However, this time the motivation is to prove everyone wrong. The Lakers and LeBron James are most likely eyeing vengeance. Moreover, Russell Westbrook’s return marks a crucial step toward defending his legacy.
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With the hunger still alive, d you think the Los Angeles Lakers can rise to the top with the current names? Let us know your views in the comments below.