The entire NBA world is focused on where Kawhi Leonard might end up, but the Lakers are also evaluating other trade options with the Denver Nuggets.
Magic Johnson’s first priority is to bring star power to the Lakers this summer. Dealing for Kawhi Leonard would certainly accomplish that goal. It doesn’t mean it’s the only deal the Lakers are considering at the moment.
The team is also reportedly engaged in discussions with the Nuggets about a potential trade. The idea behind that transaction would be Denver could send salary to L.A. to alleviate some of their luxury tax concerns. The Lakers would receive draft compensation for their trouble.
Specifically, the Lakers would need to take on some combination of Wilson Chandler, Kenneth Faried and Darrell Arthur. No one in that group is going to transform the team into a title contender next season, but that’s not the point. Each is currently on an expiring contract. In other words, the Lakers can take them in without sacrificing any of their potential 2019 cap space.
At this point, it looks as if Lakers fans are going to have to wait until next summer to see a big name star come to town. Kawhi Leonard is still a possible acquisition, but the Spurs’ lack of interest in Lonzo Ball does make that deal more complicated. Kyle Kuzma, Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart and draft compensation might be required to satisfy the Spurs’ demands. That would be a heavy price for Magic and company.
The right play for the team might be waiting the Leonard saga out. There’s always the chance he could move to L.A. as a free agent next summer. Even if he doesn’t, the team would be in a better position to acquire a big name addition next year with their young core still in tact.
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No matter what happens this summer, Lakers fans should be pleased to know the team isn’t solely fixated on the idea of acquiring Leonard. Putting all of their eggs in such a tenuous basket would be bad policy. Taking on bad salary from the Nuggets isn’t nearly as sexy as acquiring Kawhi, but it may be better for the team’s long-term health.