3 moves the Lakers need to make this offseason to make LeBron happy

1. Get DeMar DeRozan to sign for a discount

One of the Lakers’ issues is that they don’t have a consistent third-option behind LeBron and AD. Kyle Kuzma was thought the be that person, but he’s been inconsistent. Schroder pseudo-filled that role last season, but his playmaking is more valuable to LA. Getting a third scorer would not only help the Lakers immensely, but it’d also take some pressure off James.

It might be a stretch, but the Lakeshow must try their best to sign DeMar DeRozan. The impending free agent seems to be approaching the offseason with an “open mind,” according to Sam Amick and John Hollinger of The Athletic. That is something the Lakers should try to use to their advantage when inquiring about 31-year-old’s services.

DeRozan is a talented scorer, having the ability to get a bucket at every level of the floor. He averages 20.1 points a game for his career and put up 21.6 a game for the San Antonio Spurs this past season. His mid-range game is one of the best in the league, which can be valuable to LeBron and the Lakers. In addition, his ability to get his own shot means James won’t have to always set him up, making things easier on the offensive end for him.

Along with his scoring, the  USC alum has also improved as a playmaker. That was something he focused on during his time with the Spurs, averaging five or more assists during his three years with the team. DeRozan’s ability to put the ball in the basket is what should have LA salivating, but his playmaking would be another welcomed trait.

DeRozan is a Los Angeles native and rooted for the team as a child. He’s been vocal about his desire to play for his hometown team, and there were rumors that the Lakers were interested in acquiring him last offseason. Things have changed since then, but as an unrestricted free agent, the 6-foot-6 wing could come home to LA — but at a discount.

The Lakers don’t have much financial flexibility heading into the offseason and give DeRozan’s play; it will take a pretty penny to sign him. However, LA can use the lure of playing with two generational talents, coming back home, and potentially winning his first ring as a way to convince DeRozan to take a pay cut to join the team. Who knows if he’ll accept lower pay to play back home, but it’s worth a shot, right?