Lakers News: Brook Lopez Pursuit Hits Major Roadblock as Uncertainty Looms Over D’Angelo Russell & 2 Key Players’ Futur

After losing out on major grabs, the Lakers can seek redemption through Brook Lopez. Superstar LeBron James agreed to a pay cut and intended to rope in players like Klay Thompson, James Harden, and Jonas Valančiūnas. But, unfortunately, signed with a different franchise following the request. However, the LA side still has an opportunity to rope in a big man to support Anthony Davis, and it is Brook Lopez. But, at the same time, this trade might drop curtains on D’Angelo Russell and two other stars.

Notably, the LA Lakers had the opportunity to hold to a younger Lopez for longer in 2017-18. But, the management traded him with just one season at the Milwaukee Bucks. Following his trip to Wisconsin, the big man had a major change in his style. A massive boost in his three-point threat, shooting close with 35.3% from the arc. Looking at JJ Redick’s plan to improve the team’s perimeter shooting, the 36-year-old could be a threat for the next two years.

However, roping in the big man, who is currently in an expiring contract worth $23 million, has a huge roadblock, as per Lakers Nation’s Trevor Lane. Since Lopez is in an expiring contract, the Lakers have to take in him by offering with something more than $23 million. Speaking of which, Lane said, “Now teams that are above first-tier apron which both the Bucks and Lakers are, effectively can’t trade with each other. Neither team can take more salary than they’re sending in.” 

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However, Lane came up with a solution where the Lakers will manage to free up more than $23 million in their cap space. He added, “In order to make something work, you’re probably looking at either Rui Hachimura or D’Angelo Russell. Starters last season, this is your building blocks. $17 million for Rui and 18.7 million for Russell. Now you got to add to them. Best case scenario for the Lakers would be Gabe Vincent.”  

Who should the Lakers prioritize for their future?

Lane suggested that the Lakers could either pair up Gabe Vincent with D’Lo or Rui Hachimura to create the necessary cap space to accommodate Brook Lopez.

Is roping in Brook Lopez better for the Lakers?

If not a failure, it’s necessarily a boost for the side. LeBron James looked to rope in Jonas Valančiūnas to support AD, but it didn’t work out. Now, the superstar has the option to fulfill his wish. Speaking of the proposed trade, Jovan Buha, the Lakers insider, had a positive nod.

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USA Today via Reuters

Buha, in his podcast, said, ” I know he’s 36, but again you have a one or two-year window.” He even regretted the Lakers trading out Lopez in the first place as he claimed the team would have won a couple of championships. He added, “Particularly Brook Lopez who like was molded in a lab to fit next to AD or Giannis as just this three in D Center and is something of a unicorn just because there’s not many guys who can protect the rim at the level that Brook Lopez does, but also shoot 36%.”

Moreover, the Bucks have reportedly agreed to trade Lopez only in return for first-round picks. So apart from freeing up cap space, the Lakers also have to present a first-round pick, in order to rope him in. Do you think the Lakers will land the Bucks’ big man? Let us know in the comments below.

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Before you go, do not forget to check out Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, to open up about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud. Keep checking this space for more such updates.

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Publish date : 2024-07-06 10:42:00

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