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Quick Bytes
- The Lakers faced rejections from top targets including Dan Hurley and Klay Thompson.
- Buddy Hield chose the Warriors over the Lakers and other teams for a chance to win.
- The Lakers may explore trades, with D’Angelo Russell and the Nets showing mutual interest.
Lakers’ Offseason Struggles and Potential Trades
The Los Angeles Lakers’ offseason has been challenging, with several preferred candidates turning down the team.
Despite LeBron James’s willingness to take a pay cut, Klay Thompson opted to sign with the Dallas Mavericks instead of the Lakers. Additionally, the Lakers were interested in Buddy Hield, who ultimately signed with the Golden State Warriors, influenced by the chance to win and a connection with Warriors assistant coach Chris DeMarco. The Lakers, constrained by salary cap limitations, could not offer more than a minimum deal, while Hield secured a $9 million contract with the Warriors.
Looking ahead, the Lakers might pivot to the trade market to improve their roster. The Brooklyn Nets have expressed interest in a reunion with D’Angelo Russell, who is on an expiring contract. With potential trade options like Cameron Johnson and Dorian Finney-Smith, the Lakers could still make significant moves before the season starts.
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