Lakers News: Where Chris Paul Ranks LA Among Possible Free Agent Destinations
The minute it was announced that the Phoenix Suns would be waiving point guard Chris Paul, the majority of people immediately thought about the Los Angeles Lakers. Los Angeles has a need for a point guard and Paul likely will have a need for a new team.
Many around the game assume that there would be mutual interest between the Lakers and Paul. An Eastern Conference GM spoke with Heavy.com and gave their thoughts on what Paul may do this offseason if he does indeed leave Phoenix.
“Lakers first,” one Eastern Conference GM texted. “It’s not definite, a lot can happen. But you’d have to start there. He always had (the) dream of being a Laker (and) playing with LBJ (James).”
Via
Heavy.com
The Lakers could still bring back D'Angelo Russell, who is a free agent in his own right, but now that Paul could be available, it could change their plans. Paul presents an interesting opportunity for the Lakers. If the team could acquire his services, it could provide them with someone that is gifted with running an offense. The lack of a consistent offense doomed the team in the playoffs against the Nuggets.
Paul and the Lakers make sense. He would provide a nice balance around LeBron James and Anthony Davis with his ability to spread the ball around. James has wanted to play more off ball as he ages and Paul could easily provide that at a high rate.
There are some real injury concerns with Paul but if they could get him for a lower valued contract, it would be a match made in heaven. Paul could finally get a chance to play alongside James and compete for a title.
Phoenix could try to re-sign Paul on a smaller contract or they could trade him for pieces. The Suns have options but no matter what, Paul and the Lakers will be linked all summer until we see a conclusion.
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