Looking To Make ‘Big Splash’ This Offseason

The Los Angeles Lakers were able to swing a deal prior to the NBA trade deadline, acquiring Luke Kennard, one of the best 3-point shooters in league history, from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Gabe Vincent and a 2032 second-round pick.

While not a groundbreaking move, the trade does give the Lakers a player who can be part of the rotation and help them win games this year.

Of course, when it comes to trades and the Lakers, many are always on the lookout for the next major move, but that won’t happen before the deadline as the Lakers simply don’t have much trade for a star-caliber player. That changes this offseason, however, and that is apparently what the Lakers and general manager Rob Pelinka are eyeing.

According to Brad Turner of the Los Angeles Times, the Lakers aren’t expected to make any more moves prior to the deadline, but instead are focused on making a big move in the summer:

The Lakers are not expected to make any more moves today — the NBA deadline for deals is noon PST — and instead look to make a big splash this summer when they have a lot more resources available.

Right now, the Lakers only have one first-round pick that they can add in a trade, but once the summer hits they will have three first-round draft picks available to move. Additionally, the Lakers will have plenty of salary cap space available and should be able to make moves while also being able to re-sign Austin Reaves to a new contract.

Of course, the big name that could be available this summer, assuming he isn’t moved at the deadline, is Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. The former two-time MVP and NBA Champion is widely expected to be dealt at some point, and the Lakers could be a prime contender once the offseason hits, especially if Giannis pushes to come to L.A.

The Lakers have always been a franchise predicated on big stars and massive trades. It was just one year ago that they shocked the world by acquiring Luka Doncic, and the organization is clearly looking at another major move this offseason that will bring this team right back to where it wants to be, amongst the NBA’s elite. All eyes will be on Pelinka this summer and what he is able to pull off.

LeBron James believes Lakers came together on Grammy road trip

While the focus for many within the organization is on the future, those in the locker room continue to push for this Lakers team to be the best it can be right now. And after an exhausting eight-game road trip, LeBron James believes this team is coming together.