LA Lakers are looking to target an all-star guard from Toronto Raptors during next season’s free agency.
Los Angeles Lakers’ overhauled their entire starting lineup during the trade window to make a final playoff push. As of now, the team stands 13th on the West Coast with 27-32. While this season is entering its final stretch, the squad has already started planning for the next season. Apparently, the Lakers’ front office has begun scouting for players to target during the upcoming free agency.
Meanwhile, one name that has been circulating in the rumors recently is All-Star guard Fred VanVleet. The Lakers have set eyes on the guard, and he might soon arrive in Hollywood if all things go well. Fred currently sits with Toronto Raptors on a $22.8 million contract with an option to opt-out next season. And, in all likelihood, he could enter the free-agent market next season.
Fred VanVleet Sparks Trade Rumors With Lakers After Signing With Klutch Sports
The Lakers are reportedly targeting Fred VanVleet for next season, as the latter is likely to enter free agency post the ongoing season. Fred has a contract option for next season currently with Toronto Raptors. Moreover, according to TSN’s Josh Lewenberg, the guard refused a four-year extension contract worth $114 million with the Raptors. On top of that, Fred cut ties with Par-Lay Sports & Entertainment and signed with an agency named Klutch Sports which manages the Lakers’ top stars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Fred’s latest move has sparked trade rumors with the Lakers. However, landing Fred would not be a cakewalk for the Lakers, as multiple teams have their eyes set on the guard. Phoenix Suns, LA Clippers, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Orlando Magic are some teams showing potential interest in Fred. Hence, the purple and gold must move swiftly to land the guard for the next season. As of now, the focus remains on the current season, wherein the Lakers are attempting to make a final push for the playoffs.
LeBron James To Reunite With Kyrie Irving Next Season?
Meanwhile, LeBron James has sparked reunion speculations with Kyrie Irving after preferring his selection during the All-Star game. According to Vince Carter and Brian Windhorst, LeBron is indirectly signaling the Lakers to sign Kyrie Irving for the upcoming NBA season. Kyrie, who arrived in Dallas after a last-minute trade with from Nets, might enter free agency next season.
Ahead of the trade deadline, the Lakers made an offer to Brooklyn Nets to acquire Kyrie. However, the Nets’ owner stood in the way like a rock and refused to deal with the purple and gold. Hence, Irving went to Dallas Mavericks. Moreover, Irving’s former Cleveland teammate, LeBron James, expressed his disappointment and said he was hurt after the trade deal fell apart. Now, as Kyrie is all set to enter free agency, chances of a reunion of the two stalwarts are high.
