Top 5 2024 offseason targets that significantly upgrade LA Lakers
The LA Lakers have gone out of the playoffs over the past two years against the Denver Nuggets. They were blanked 4-0 in the 2023 Western Conference Finals before getting a gentleman’s sweep this year in the first round. In both series, the Lakers were no pushovers despite what looked like a seemingly decisive series.
Lakers GM Rob Pelinka, who made significant changes leading into this season’s campaign, is expected to tweak the roster again. How he goes about doing it will have to depend unquestionably on LeBron James’ status. The four-time MVP has a $51.4 million player option, a stipulation which he has until late this month to decide on.
If James stunningly leaves Hollywood, the Lakers will have no choice but to rebuild around Anthony Davis. Without anything in return for “King James,” who will leave as an unrestricted free agent, Pelinka’s team will find it tough to contend for the playoffs.
But, assuming LeBron James opts in or opts out and agrees to a new deal, the LA Lakers have two ways to upgrade the roster. They can focus on mid-sized acquisitions or go for the home run by trading players and draft capital for another star.
Players the LA Lakers can go after in the offseason to upgrade the roster
#5 - Gary Harris
Gary Harris struggled from deep in the playoffs but Orlando Magic coach Jamahl Mosley kept him in the starting unit because of his defense. Harris, though, is a career 37.1% shooter from deep so if he regains his touch, it will be a bonus. The no-nonsense veteran will not be expensive and he will instantly upgrade the LA Lakers’ perimeter defense.
In a conference that has Kyrie Irving, Luka Doncic, Jamal Murray, James Harden, Paul George, Devin Booker and other perimeter stars, Harris will be handy.
#4 - Buddy Hield
The LA Lakers have reportedly been interested in Buddy Hield over the last few years. For one reason or another, rumored negotiations involving the shooter never got done. Perhaps it is about time to finally bring him over.
LeBron James surrounded by shooters is a proven formula that Rob Pelinka surely has in mind. Hield shot 38.6% in 3-pointers last season, including a sizzling 46.2% in the playoffs for the Philadelphia 76ers. Hield’s presence will give James and Anthony Davis a bit more wiggle room in the paint.