3 stars the Lakers could realistically acquire this offseason
By John Buhler
DeMar DeRozan grew up idolizing Kobe Bryant, so go bring the L.A. native home
Soon-to-be free agent DeMar DeRozan has a big decision to make this offseason. DeRozan had spent his entire NBA career with the Toronto Raptors out of USC before being traded to the San Antonio Spurs in the blockbuster deal for Kawhi Leonard. During his one year north of the border, Leonard won a championship. DeRozan was the best player on a non-playoff team in San Antonio.
DeRozan can still play at an All-Star level, but he is no longer able to be the best player on a playoff-caliber team. Fortunately for him, he would not have to be that if he were to come home to Los Angeles. The Compton native grew up idolizing Lakers legend Kobe Bryant. It may be a dream for him to bring a championship to Los Angeles while wearing the Lakers’ purple and gold.
While he would not fix the Lakers’ point guard issues, DeRozan does give them a go-to scorer at shooting guard. Though he is not a great 3-point shooter, DeRozan has solidified a reputation as one of the best mid-range scorers of his generation. It may not be overly efficient, but the soon-to-be 32-year-old free agent could slot in very nicely for the Lakers to go and win another title.
Overall, the Lakers have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to acquiring a star. They could also look at adding notable players like Bradley Beal of the Washington Wizards, Buddy Hield of the Sacramento Kings, Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers or Myles Turner of the Indiana Pacers. This all comes down to fit and if this third star can coalesce with Davis and James.
What other star players should the Lakers look to acquire in either free agency or by way of trade?