NBA Analyst Decodes Why Los Angeles Lakers Overpaid These Two Youngsters

Rui Hachimura D'Angelo Russell Lakers

Rui Hachimura D'Angelo Russell Lakers Source: Basketball Network

Los Angeles Lakers have been impressive this offseason. They have done a remarkable job of retaining the three young emerging stars – Austin Reaves, D’Angelo Russell, and Rui Hachimura. Vividly, fans are very happy to know that these three promising talents are back on the roster with multi-year agreements. They will once again play alongside the leading two players of the LA side – LeBron James and Anthony Davis again for the next season. This sure does increase their chances of making it to the conference finals again. That’s what the Lakers want to do. They want to push for another championship.

The Los Angeles Lakers had to wait for a long time to get to the 17th title back in 2019-20. But they don’t want to wait for a similar time to get to the 18th. LeBron James and Anthony Davis duo played crucial roles in helping the LA side win in 2020. They are still there with the LA side and hungry for more. Moreover, nothing makes James happier than winning championships. Anthony Davis also tried his best to win the title last season, and he will try once more. But some ESPN Analysts claim that the Lakers have not yet formed a championship-winning roster.

   

A Reporter Suggests A Theory On Why Rob Pelinka Spent A Lot Of Money To Retain Two Young Players

Rob Pelinka Lakers Source: Los Angeles Times

Other than the five players mentioned earlier, the Lakers have Cam Reddish, Gabe Vincent, and Taurean Prince. However, there are some fans and experts who wonder if the Lakers have stopped planning to acquire Kyrie Irving. Even before the last season got over, the rumors were flooding about the Lakers being a top contender to sign with Kyrie Irving, mainly because it would make LeBron James very happy. However, it was taking forever to confirm whether the LA side would sign with LeBron James’ old Cleveland Cavaliers teammate. Later, Irving decided to stay with Dallas Mavericks and signed a contract for three years worth $126 million.

Hence, it seems like the Lakers have missed their chance to acquire Iriving. But Bill Simmons, on his podcast, suggests a theory that the Lakers might have a plan to acquire the Mavericks man. The Purple and Gold might combine the contracts of D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura in a late December to January trade to buy Kyrie Irving. Bill Simmons even questioned why Hachimura and Russell got pretty good deals. Despite terrible performance in the Western Conference Final, why did the Lakers re-sign Russell for a pretty good deal worth $37 million in two years?

Will The Lakers Trade Hachimura And Russell For Irving In December?

Lakers Source: Los Angeles Times

Rui Hachimura got $51 million in three years; it is also a better-than-expected deal. Hence, the question remains about the Lakers’ move in trade scenario during December and January. Moreover, D’Angelo Russell mentioned that a training camp would bring the best out of the team. Hence, there is still a teeny tiny possibility that LeBron’s old friend, Kyrie Irving, might get the chance to reunite with the King. And play for the Los Angeles Lakers. However, Bill Simmons just presents a fun theory. But only Rob Pelinka and the front office can prove if it is valid.        

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