Pierce pinpoints former All-NBA player as an ideal Lakers target

Paul Pierce. Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Paul Pierce pinpoints this former All-NBA player as an ideal Lakers target

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 4/30/24

The Los Angeles Lakers crashed out of the NBA playoffs on Monday, losing to the Denver Nuggets in five games. As they head into the offseason, numerous questions surround what changes need to be made to the current roster.

Darvin Ham's future is in question, LeBron James has refused to commit his future to the franchise and there are numerous contract decisions to be made.

On top of all those decisions, Rob Pelinka must figure out how to improve the current team. Boston Celtics legend Paul Pierce believes there is a simple way for the Lakers to elevate their current roster heading into next season. He sees Donovan Mitchell as the ideal addition.

“What I would do is, if I was the Lakers GM, you know who I would target? Donovan Mitchell has been a perfect fit,” Pierce said on 'Undisputed.' "Cleveland is not going to extend him or he’s not looking for an extension with Cleveland. And the way this series is playing out with Orlando, if it doesn’t go well, he opts out, or they trade him, he has one year left, they’ll trade him because he doesn’t want to sign the extension."

.@PaulPierce34 says the Lakers NEED to eye Donovan Mitchell this offseason pic.twitter.com/boB27Ja0Jx
— UNDISPUTED (@undisputed) April 30, 2024

Mitchell will enter the final guaranteed year of his contract next season. He's consistently avoided verbally committing his future to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Currently, there is no contract extension in place. As such, Mitchell's future has become an open question with fans around the league.

When factoring in Mitchell's scoring, playmaking and fierce will to win, he is the ideal addition to the Lakers. He would provide them with some flare, pace, and killer instinct at the guard position. He could thrive next to LeBron and Anthony Davis or as the team's new lead star.

Striking a deal for Mitchell wouldn't be easy. The Cavaliers would certainly expect a significant return in any potential trade. However, the Lakers need to be bold in their decision-making. Mitchell would be a major signal of intent from the front office. They need a move like this to get their fanbase back onside after a disappointing season.

The Lakers will undoubtedly make moves. Whether Pelinka has Mitchell at the top of his list will remain to be seen.

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