Lakerholics

  • Profile picture of LakerTom

    LakerTom wrote a new post

    • 4 months ago

    https://x.com/LakerTom/status/1816281602005295505

    The Los Angeles Lakers have multiple holes on their roster after not making any meaningful moves in the offseason yet. As currently constructed, all the Lakers have done is add Bronny James and Dalton Knecht, two rookies they drafted in the 2024 NBA draft. With a clear need to improve, the Lakers will be challenged to do so in the next few weeks.

    Isaac Gutierrez of Bleacher Report believes a backup center might be more important than anything for the Lakers to add. In a recent live stream, Gutierrez listed ten Lakers trade targets, including Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler to backup Anthony Davis.

    “If you’ve watched Team USA, you’ve seen what Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo have looked like together as a defensive frontline,” Gutierrez said on July 23. “You can’t score on that duo. And we know for several years now, the Lakers have made Anthony Davis a full-time center since the jump shot isn’t what it once was…

    “But we could still get a good amount of minutes per game with him next to a center and use that as a 12-minute a game shakeup. Even outside of the minutes when you’re playing with Anthony Davis, they have a black hole at backup center right now. Last year, that was the biggest weakness of the whole roster, I think… They need somebody that can at least keep the defense afloat when Anthony Davis sits, and Walker Kessler could do more than just that.”

    Kessler’s Trade Value Might Be Too High

    Trading for Kessler could require the Los Angeles Lakers to move some of their assets, which could come back to hurt them if a better player eventually becomes available that they need.

    The Lakers only have two tradeable first-round picks, so holding onto those for a non-backup center could be the right decision.

    According to Ian Begley of SNY, the Utah Jazz are seeking a first-round pick for his services. Danny Ainge, the Jazz’s CEO of Basketball Operations, has historically landed favorable packages in return.

    “But teams in touch with Utah say the Jazz are looking for at least a first-round pick in return for Kessler in these conversations that had gone on earlier in the offseason,” Begley said on July 8.

    All-Rookie Center Named Lakers Trade Target to Backup Anthony Davis
    Posts
    July 24, 2024
    1

    The Los Angeles Lakers have multiple holes on their roster after not making any meaningful moves in the offseason yet. As currently constructed, all the Lakers have done is add Bronny James and Dalton Knecht, two rookies they drafted in the 2024 NBA draft. With a clear need to improve, the Lakers will be challenged to do so in the next few weeks.

    Isaac Gutierrez of Bleacher Report believes a backup center might be more important than anything for the Lakers to add. In a recent live stream, Gutierrez listed ten Lakers trade targets, including Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler to backup Anthony Davis.

    “If you’ve watched Team USA, you’ve seen what Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo have looked like together as a defensive frontline,” Gutierrez said on July 23. “You can’t score on that duo. And we know for several years now, the Lakers have made Anthony Davis a full-time center since the jump shot isn’t what it once was…

    “But we could still get a good amount of minutes per game with him next to a center and use that as a 12-minute a game shakeup. Even outside of the minutes when you’re playing with Anthony Davis, they have a black hole at backup center right now. Last year, that was the biggest weakness of the whole roster, I think… They need somebody that can at least keep the defense afloat when Anthony Davis sits, and Walker Kessler could do more than just that.”

    Kessler’s Trade Value Might Be Too High

    Trading for Kessler could require the Los Angeles Lakers to move some of their assets, which could come back to hurt them if a better player eventually becomes available that they need.

    The Lakers only have two tradeable first-round picks, so holding onto those for a non-backup center could be the right decision.

    According to Ian Begley of SNY, the Utah Jazz are seeking a first-round pick for his services. Danny Ainge, the Jazz’s CEO of Basketball Operations, has historically landed favorable packages in return.

    “But teams in touch with Utah say the Jazz are looking for at least a first-round pick in return for Kessler in these conversations that had gone on earlier in the offseason,” Begley said on July 8.

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    • Profile picture of Jamie Sweet
      Jamie Sweet
      4 months ago

      If we didn’t have Hayes I’d be more in favor of a slight overpay for WK. As it stands we have 3.5 centers if you count Wood. I count Wood.

      It’s honestly pretty hard for me to take any article that starts with “if you’ve seen Team USA then…” because there is no team in the Association like that one. It’s all HOFers in a non 82 game grind. It’s nothing like the NBA so any comparison is simply a fool’s errand or someone trying to fill space and time.

  • Profile picture of LakerTom

    LakerTom wrote a new post

    • 4 months ago

    https://x.com/LakerTom/status/1816133455757164932

    Trade Scenario No. 1: Two Birds With One Stone

    Lakers Receive:
    -Walker Kessler
    -Collin Sexton

    Jazz Receive:-
    -Austin Reaves
    -Jarred Vanderbilt
    -Jalen-Hood Schifino
    -2026 First-Round Pick Swap

    Trade Scenario No. 2: A New Big Three With Zach LaVine

    Lakers Receive:
    -Zach LaVine

    Jazz Receive:
    -Austin Reaves
    -Rui Hachimura
    -Gabe Vincent,
    -Jalen-Hood Schifino

    Trade Scenario No. 3: An All-Star-Caliber Reunion

    Lakers Receive:
    -Kyle Kuzma

    Wizards Receive:
    -Austin Reaves
    -Jarred Vanderbilt
    -2030 Second-Round Pick

    Lakers Could Trade Austin Reaves In Three Trade Scenarios
    Posts
    July 24, 2024
    3

    Trade Scenario No. 1: Two Birds With One Stone

    Lakers Receive:
    -Walker Kessler
    -Collin Sexton

    Jazz Receive:-
    -Austin Reaves
    -Jarred Vanderbilt
    -Jalen-Hood Schifino
    -2026 First-Round Pick Swap

    Trade Scenario No. 2: A New Big Three With Zach LaVine

    Lakers Receive:
    -Zach LaVine

    Jazz Receive:
    -Austin Reaves
    -Rui Hachimura
    -Gabe Vincent,
    -Jalen-Hood Schifino

    Trade Scenario No. 3: An All-Star-Caliber Reunion

    Lakers Receive:
    -Kyle Kuzma

    Wizards Receive:
    -Austin Reaves
    -Jarred Vanderbilt
    -2030 Second-Round Pick

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  • Profile picture of LakerTom

    LakerTom wrote a new post

    • 4 months ago
    Lakers one of three teams that have not signed any free agents
    Posts
    July 23, 2024
    1

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  • Profile picture of LakerTom

    LakerTom wrote a new post

    • 4 months ago

    https://x.com/LakerTom/status/1815800011738996944

    Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James is dominating for Team USA. The manner in which James has been positioned to do so has provided a blueprint for JJ Redick.

    How does one evaluate a player who has rewritten history and set standards never previously met? It’s the impossible task placed in front of first-year Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick, with a soon-to-be 40-year-old LeBron James operating as the source of the question.

    As James reminds the skeptics that he continues to be one of the best players on the planet at the 2024 USA Basketball Showcase, the answer may be presenting itself.

    Steve Kerr has coached Team USA to a 5-0 record in the exhibition games leading up to the 2024 Summer Olympics. Three of those games were decided by single digits, and only one game resembled the American’s historically dominant form.

    While some might be concerned about what that means for Team USA’s gold medal dreams, the Lakers should view this experience as the perfect opportunity to adapt their strategy.

    Lakers star Anthony Davis has been tremendous for Team USA, anchoring the defense and dominating the glass. It’s an encouraging sign considering Los Angeles has passed the baton to the 31-year-old as the franchise player.

    What makes the Americans’ performance so compelling for the Lakers, however, is that Kerr seems to have cracked the code in terms of how to use James at 39 going on 40.

    LeBron James can still dominate—if positioned to do so

    James continues to defy Father Time, but that doesn’t mean that he can play without limitations. He’s still an athletic powerhouse who can overwhelm defenders and finish above the rim, but he’s also a player with considerable milage and the need to pace himself through games.

    Those limitations play a significant role in the fact that James has missed at least 26 games in four of his six seasons with the Lakers, exceeding 70 appearances just once—2023-24.

    The reason 2023-24 saw an uptick in availability is consistent with what Team USA has done to help James thrive: They’ve helped him lean on skill over physical dominance. With the Lakers, he attempted fewer shots, returned to the role of primary facilitator, and conserved his energy for the fourth quarter.

    Team USA has helped establish what may be required to put the finishing touches on that stylistic evolution: Surrounding James with committed defenders.

    What Los Angeles began to do in 2023-24 had the potential to yield tremendous results. James posted the best three-point field goal percentage of his career, five players averaged at least 13.6 points per game, and three Lakers averaged upwards of 5.5 assists per contest.

    It’s also worth noting that a 47-win season is nothing to scoff at when one considers the fact that top defenders Jared Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent appeared in a combined 40 games.

    Rather than relying on two role players to hold the defense together, however, Team USA is requiring everyone to buy in on that end of the floor. It’s the key to tapping into any team’s potential, especially one with a 39-year-old closer.

    The result has been James taking over in the fourth quarter and even putting the team on his back when it looks like no one else can do so.

    That’s the blueprint that the Lakers must follow. Creating a consistent and coherent offensive system will be essential, but the primary concern must be holding each other accountable on defense to limit the deficits that James must bring Los Angeles back from—or at least maximize the value of each point he scores.

    If the Lakers are able to defend at a high level and continue to create open shots, then James can close out the games that Davis paces them through.

    Team USA providing blueprint for how LeBron James can help Lakers contend
    Posts
    July 23, 2024
    2

    Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James is dominating for Team USA. The manner in which James has been positioned to do so has provided a blueprint for JJ Redick.

    How does one evaluate a player who has rewritten history and set standards never previously met? It’s the impossible task placed in front of first-year Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick, with a soon-to-be 40-year-old LeBron James operating as the source of the question.

    As James reminds the skeptics that he continues to be one of the best players on the planet at the 2024 USA Basketball Showcase, the answer may be presenting itself.

    Steve Kerr has coached Team USA to a 5-0 record in the exhibition games leading up to the 2024 Summer Olympics. Three of those games were decided by single digits, and only one game resembled the American’s historically dominant form.

    While some might be concerned about what that means for Team USA’s gold medal dreams, the Lakers should view this experience as the perfect opportunity to adapt their strategy.

    Lakers star Anthony Davis has been tremendous for Team USA, anchoring the defense and dominating the glass. It’s an encouraging sign considering Los Angeles has passed the baton to the 31-year-old as the franchise player.

    What makes the Americans’ performance so compelling for the Lakers, however, is that Kerr seems to have cracked the code in terms of how to use James at 39 going on 40.

    LeBron James can still dominate—if positioned to do so

    James continues to defy Father Time, but that doesn’t mean that he can play without limitations. He’s still an athletic powerhouse who can overwhelm defenders and finish above the rim, but he’s also a player with considerable milage and the need to pace himself through games.

    Those limitations play a significant role in the fact that James has missed at least 26 games in four of his six seasons with the Lakers, exceeding 70 appearances just once—2023-24.

    The reason 2023-24 saw an uptick in availability is consistent with what Team USA has done to help James thrive: They’ve helped him lean on skill over physical dominance. With the Lakers, he attempted fewer shots, returned to the role of primary facilitator, and conserved his energy for the fourth quarter.

    Team USA has helped establish what may be required to put the finishing touches on that stylistic evolution: Surrounding James with committed defenders.

    What Los Angeles began to do in 2023-24 had the potential to yield tremendous results. James posted the best three-point field goal percentage of his career, five players averaged at least 13.6 points per game, and three Lakers averaged upwards of 5.5 assists per contest.

    It’s also worth noting that a 47-win season is nothing to scoff at when one considers the fact that top defenders Jared Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent appeared in a combined 40 games.

    Rather than relying on two role players to hold the defense together, however, Team USA is requiring everyone to buy in on that end of the floor. It’s the key to tapping into any team’s potential, especially one with a 39-year-old closer.

    The result has been James taking over in the fourth quarter and even putting the team on his back when it looks like no one else can do so.

    That’s the blueprint that the Lakers must follow. Creating a consistent and coherent offensive system will be essential, but the primary concern must be holding each other accountable on defense to limit the deficits that James must bring Los Angeles back from—or at least maximize the value of each point he scores.

    If the Lakers are able to defend at a high level and continue to create open shots, then James can close out the games that Davis paces them through.

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    • Profile picture of Jamie Sweet
      Jamie Sweet
      4 months ago

      I mean…if there’s a world where people are comparing Team USA to the Lakers it’s only in this one. Lakers need James for 48 because, well, they’re NOT Team USA. lol.

      • Profile picture of therealhtj
        therealhtj
        4 months ago

        I guess if you surround him with all-NBA talent, let him coast for 3 quarters, then he can probably muster enough energy to do something in the 4th. If you surround him with mostly fringe guys, then the game’s probably over before he can do much to save the situation at this point.

  • Profile picture of LakerTom

    LakerTom wrote a new post

    • 4 months ago

    https://x.com/LakerTom/status/1815796666336960746

    The Los Angeles Lakers are operating with the apparent hope that addition will come in the form of subtraction heading into the 2024-25 season. After parting with former head coach Darvin Ham, the Lakers made limited moves to improve the roster, relying entirely on the NBA Draft.

    New head coach JJ Redick is optimistic about what the current roster can do, but he spoke without hesitation about the areas in which the team can still stand to improve.

    Redick is leading the youth movement for the Lakers that has included drafting Dalton Knecht and Bronny James, and re-signing Max Christie. He’s also spoken about how he intends to create a system that runs through Anthony Davis and takes pressure off of LeBron James.

    In an interview on NBA Today on SiriusXM Radio, Redick spoke candidly about what he believes the next step is in helping the Lakers contend: Acquiring a big, bruising center.

    “You certainly have to look at what I think is actually a very good roster, a very balanced roster. We’d love, we tried, but we’d love to, at some point, get another five-man, a big bruising five-man. You look at the Western Conference right now, whether it’s Denver, Minnesota, OKC with what they added, certainly Memphis, they’re going to be back in the hunt, they added Zach Edey, you’re going to need in certain matchups in the playoffs, you’re going to need a lot of size.”

    As the Lakers continue to go through the offseason without adding a single new player via free agency, Redick is refusing to accept complacency.

    JJ Redick believes Lakers must improve at center

    JJ Redick directly addresses roster void he hopes to see Lakers fill
    Posts
    July 23, 2024
    0

    The Los Angeles Lakers are operating with the apparent hope that addition will come in the form of subtraction heading into the 2024-25 season. After parting with former head coach Darvin Ham, the Lakers made limited moves to improve the roster, relying entirely on the NBA Draft.

    New head coach JJ Redick is optimistic about what the current roster can do, but he spoke without hesitation about the areas in which the team can still stand to improve.

    Redick is leading the youth movement for the Lakers that has included drafting Dalton Knecht and Bronny James, and re-signing Max Christie. He’s also spoken about how he intends to create a system that runs through Anthony Davis and takes pressure off of LeBron James.

    In an interview on NBA Today on SiriusXM Radio, Redick spoke candidly about what he believes the next step is in helping the Lakers contend: Acquiring a big, bruising center.

    “You certainly have to look at what I think is actually a very good roster, a very balanced roster. We’d love, we tried, but we’d love to, at some point, get another five-man, a big bruising five-man. You look at the Western Conference right now, whether it’s Denver, Minnesota, OKC with what they added, certainly Memphis, they’re going to be back in the hunt, they added Zach Edey, you’re going to need in certain matchups in the playoffs, you’re going to need a lot of size.”

    As the Lakers continue to go through the offseason without adding a single new player via free agency, Redick is refusing to accept complacency.

    JJ Redick believes Lakers must improve at center

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  • Profile picture of LakerTom

    LakerTom wrote a new post

    • 4 months ago

    https://x.com/DaysComeNdGo/status/1815515952231882909

    Team USA Stat Leaders
    Posts
    July 23, 2024
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    LakerTom wrote a new post

    • 4 months ago

    https://x.com/LakerTom/status/1815739994448994802

    Clint Capela, Atlanta Hawks
    Isaiah Jackson, Indiana Pacers
    Brook Lopez, Milwaukee Bucks
    Nick Richards, Charlotte Hornets
    Jonas Valanciunas, Washington Wizards
    Isaiah Stewart, Detroit Pistons
    Steven Adams, Houston Rockets
    Walker Kessler, Utah Jazz
    Robert Williams III, Portland Trail Blazers

    9 Trade targets who would perfectly fill void at center position
    Posts
    July 23, 2024
    1

    Clint Capela, Atlanta Hawks
    Isaiah Jackson, Indiana Pacers
    Brook Lopez, Milwaukee Bucks
    Nick Richards, Charlotte Hornets
    Jonas Valanciunas, Washington Wizards
    Isaiah Stewart, Detroit Pistons
    Steven Adams, Houston Rockets
    Walker Kessler, Utah Jazz
    Robert Williams III, Portland Trail Blazers

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    • Profile picture of LakerTom
      LakerTom
      4 months ago

      MY RANKING OF 10 CANDIDATES:

      1. Brook Lopez
      2. Wendel Carter Jr. (added)
      3. Walker Kessler
      4. Robert Williams
      5. Jones Valanciunas
      6. Isaiah Stewart
      7. Steven Adams
      8 Isaiah Jackson
      9. Nick Richards
      10. Clint Capela

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    LakerTom wrote a new post

    • 4 months, 1 week ago

    https://x.com/jovanbuha/status/1815557539314180595

    Five Reasons the Lakers Will Overachieve
    Posts
    July 22, 2024
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    • Profile picture of LakerTom
      LakerTom
      4 months, 1 week ago

      Lakers should be a 50 win team if healthy.
      That is, of course, a big IF.
      Still need a backup center before season starts.
      And a mega trade at deadline AS USUAL.
      Rob’s probably going to continue to shoot blanks.

    • Profile picture of Buba
      Buba
      4 months, 1 week ago

      Can the Lakers overachieve this season?

      Absolutely! Here’s why the Lakers are poised to exceed their projected over-under totals this season in my opinion:

      1. The Coaching Upgrade
      The Lakers have made a significant coaching change by bringing in JJ Redick as the new head coach. Redick, known for his sharp basketball IQ and understanding of modern offensive schemes, is expected to bring a more structured and organized offense. His experienced coaching staff, including Lindsey Harding, Nate McMillan, and Scott Brooks, adds a wealth of knowledge and strategic depth. This upgrade should translate into better in-game adjustments and overall team performance.

      2. Health Regression
      Last season, the Lakers were plagued by injuries to key players like LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Jarred Vanderbilt. With a healthier roster, the team can expect more consistent contributions from its stars and role players. A full season of LeBron and AD, combined with the return of other key players, will significantly boost the Lakers’ chances of outperforming their win projections.

      3. Internal Improvement & Continuity
      The Lakers have retained a core group of players, including Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Max Christie, who are expected to improve with another year of experience. The continuity of the roster allows for better chemistry and understanding on the court. Additionally, the development of young talent like Dalton Knecht will add depth and versatility to the team.
      How about this: Who can predict what Bronny James will achieve in the future? I am not overly excited about him yet, but I know that he’s got the fundamentals, especially on the defensive side.

      4. Last Season’s Finish
      The Lakers finished last season strong, going 22-10 in their final 32 games after making key adjustments to their lineup. This momentum, coupled with the confidence gained from their late-season surge, sets a positive tone for the upcoming season. The team’s ability to perform under pressure and make strategic changes bodes well for their chances of exceeding expectations.

      5. Trade Possibilities
      Although the Lakers don’t
      have much assets and flexibility to make impactful trades during this off-season, the potential for mid-season improvements will add another layer of optimism for the Lakers’ prospects.

      Conclusion
      With a coaching upgrade, improved health, internal development, strong finish last season, and trade possibilities, the Lakers are well-positioned to surpass their projected win totals. The combination of strategic leadership, player growth, and roster flexibility makes them a formidable contender in the upcoming season.
      So yes, I think the Lakers have a real shot at overachieving this season if they stay healthy. Lakers fans have plenty of reasons to be optimistic and excited!
      That’s just my opinion

      • Profile picture of LakerTom
        LakerTom
        4 months ago

        Great post, Buba. This is the blueprint if everything goes right. Team still has three huge needs: POA guard, bigger 3&D wing, and backup or starting center. Until we make moves to fill those holes, we’re a 50-win team that makes the play-in but loses in the first or second round imo. Pelinka needs to make big moves because LeBron and AD are still best duo in entire league.

      • Profile picture of Michael H
        Michael H
        4 months ago

        Nice Buba. Health is huge of course but internal growth is key. Max is 21 and Vando, Rui and Austin are 25 or 26 and not quite in their prime yet. All have improved every year and I believe with a better system they all will take another step forward.

      • Profile picture of DJ2KB24
        DJ2KB24
        4 months ago

        Your opinion is well-received my good (what?) no, GREAT friend!

        • Profile picture of Buba
          Buba
          4 months ago

          Hahaha, that’s very funny, DJ. I like the way you put it together. Thanks, man!

      • Profile picture of Jamie Sweet
        Jamie Sweet
        4 months ago

  • Profile picture of LakerTom

    LakerTom wrote a new post

    • 4 months, 1 week ago

    https://x.com/LakersDailyCom/status/1815494865628925976
    https://x.com/LakersReporter/status/1815497322236911931
    https://x.com/Purpl3andGold/status/1815495159011844536

    LeBron vs. Germany today
    Posts
    July 22, 2024
    3

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    • Profile picture of LakerTom
      LakerTom
      4 months, 1 week ago

      LeBron is best player on Team USA and still a top-5 player in the world.

    • Profile picture of Buba
      Buba
      4 months, 1 week ago

      LeBron James’ unparalleled talent and relentless drive are ingrained in his very DNA. His extraordinary abilities on the court are not just a product of hard work but a testament to his innate greatness. LeBron’s legacy is built on a foundation of natural-born excellence, making him a true icon in the world of basketball.

      • Profile picture of LakerTom
        LakerTom
        4 months ago

        Pelinka has to do something to help LeBron and AD. They’re both playing at an elite level right now. Best health for both in years.

  • Profile picture of DJ2KB24

    DJ2KB24 wrote a new post

    • 4 months, 1 week ago

    Aretha is (was, R.I.P) The Queen of Soul! LeBron James is the King of Basketball!

    WOW!
    Posts
    July 22, 2024
    1

    Aretha is (was, R.I.P) The Queen of Soul! LeBron James is the King of Basketball!

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  • Profile picture of LakerTom

    LakerTom wrote a new post

    • 4 months, 1 week ago

    https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1815430276698251354

    Dinwiddie agreed on one-year deal with Dallas Mavericks
    Posts
    July 22, 2024
    8

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    • Profile picture of LakerTom
      LakerTom
      4 months, 1 week ago

      Effing Pelinka is such a fool and a tool.

    • Profile picture of LakerTom
      LakerTom
      4 months, 1 week ago

    • Profile picture of LakerTom
      LakerTom
      4 months, 1 week ago

      • Profile picture of Jamie Sweet
        Jamie Sweet
        4 months, 1 week ago

        Way I see it there are a few scenarios in play:
        -As a “favor” to Klutch they won’t pay to dump Cam Reddish. I honestly can’t think of a more reasonable explanation since, based on need. You would have to pay a 2nd rounder to move him, which has the obvious unintended side effect of lowering Cam’s value. We obviously have a glut of wings with LeBron, Rui, Vando, possible Christie, Cam and maybe even Dalton taking up minutes at the 3. Hard to see Cam at any other spot, maybe the backup/backup 2?
        -Nobody even wants Wood for a 2nd rounder. That sounds odd, any team with cap space is in rebuilding mode and can simply waive him or choose to play him and he’s hella cheap.
        -The Lakers are unwilling to part with Hayes since he’s the only true backup we currently have and they don’t see much improvement by swapping him for any of the available FA 5’s out there. This I actually tend to agree with, Hayes of the 3 is by far the most valuable and has the most potential to improve his game like we saw last season. While not a “bruising” center he is big, fast and can get up there so in the right defensive scheme could be mildly essential.

        The real thing I believe is that Rob isn’t going to burn a 2nd rounder to move a guy, he’ll just roll as-is. He either doesn’t grasp the basic practices of this time of year or sees 2nd rounders a couple seasons out as valuable team-building tools. It’s hard for to logically quantify any of that since we are (allegedly) in “win now” mode. I suppose there could be a world where he’s hoarding picks in the hopes of making a deal with Utah for one of WK or LM but if that deal doesn’t get done and we just watched all these opportunities slip through our figures because we’re trying out trader danny Trader Danny Rob doesn’t really deserve to keep the job, IMO.

    • Profile picture of Jamie Sweet
      Jamie Sweet
      4 months, 1 week ago

      Rob is the weakest link. Not Frank, not Darvin, certainly not any player (maybe THT but Rob still chose him over ACFresh…).

      Only 1 thing for it. Fire him ASAP.

    • Profile picture of Buba
      Buba
      4 months, 1 week ago

      Lakers fans’ frustration with GM Rob Pelinka is palpable, and it’s not without reason. The team’s recent struggles can be traced back to several questionable decisions under his leadership.
      Firstly, Pelinka’s inability to secure key free agents has left the roster lacking the depth and talent needed to compete at the highest level. This offseason, in particular, has been a glaring example of missed opportunities, with the Lakers failing to add the necessary firepower to support their star players.
      Secondly, Pelinka’s trades have often been met with skepticism. The acquisition of players who haven’t lived up to expectations has only added to the fans’ discontent. These moves have not only failed to improve the team’s performance but have also strained the Lakers’ financial flexibility, making it harder to make future improvements.
      Moreover, the handling of the team’s young talent has been another point of contention. Promising players have been traded away or not developed to their full potential, leaving fans wondering what could have been if a different approach had been taken.
      In summary, the dissatisfaction with Rob Pelinka stems from a series of missteps that have hindered the Lakers’ ability to compete effectively. Fans are rightfully concerned that without a change in strategy, the team’s chances of returning to championship glory will remain slim. It’s time for the Lakers’ front office to take decisive action and restore faith in the team’s future.

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    LakerTom wrote a new post

    • 4 months, 1 week ago

    https://x.com/ClutchPoints/status/1815388263324045333

    Windy on how great Anthony Davis has been playing for Team USA
    Posts
    July 22, 2024
    1

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    • Profile picture of Buba
      Buba
      4 months, 1 week ago

      While I commend AD and LeBron for their dedication in representing our country at the Olympics, I am genuinely concerned about their lack of rest this off-season. We saw the impact of this on Austin Reaves last summer; he appeared fatigued during the first quarter of the season. Ensuring our key players get adequate rest is crucial for their performance and the team’s success in the long run.

  • Profile picture of LakerTom

    LakerTom wrote a new post

    • 4 months, 1 week ago

    https://x.com/LakerTom/status/1815414184680816815

    If all of those moves fail to materialize, though – ESPN NBA insider Brian Windhorst says that a blockbuster trade might be in the cards over the next few months.

    “And even though he’s, like, almost never looked better defensively, you’ve got JJ Redick out there on the record saying that, ‘We need a bruising center. [That’s] the reason they went after Jonas Valanciunas.

    “By the way, do we think Jonas Valanciunas will be on offer from the [Washington] Wizards midway through the season? I wouldn’t rule out Jonas Valanciunas eventually ending up a Laker this year.”

    “One-hundred percent,” fellow NBA insider Tim Bontemps agreed.

    Valanciunas signed a three-year, $30 million contract this summer, but that obviously doesn’t mean he will necessarily remain with the Wizards for the entirety of the deal.

    A few weeks ago new Lakers head coach J.J. Redick revealed who the team needed to trade for ASAP.

    Valanciunas’ strengths would definitely align with what Redick wants.

    The question now is whether the front office can deliver. Thus far this summer they haven’t been able to, but if Windhorst is saying acquiring Valanciunas is a possibility for the Lakers, it has to be rooted in something real.

    Windhorst Reveals Blockbuster Lakers Trade To Keep An Eye On
    Posts
    July 22, 2024
    0

    If all of those moves fail to materialize, though – ESPN NBA insider Brian Windhorst says that a blockbuster trade might be in the cards over the next few months.

    “And even though he’s, like, almost never looked better defensively, you’ve got JJ Redick out there on the record saying that, ‘We need a bruising center. [That’s] the reason they went after Jonas Valanciunas.

    “By the way, do we think Jonas Valanciunas will be on offer from the [Washington] Wizards midway through the season? I wouldn’t rule out Jonas Valanciunas eventually ending up a Laker this year.”

    “One-hundred percent,” fellow NBA insider Tim Bontemps agreed.

    Valanciunas signed a three-year, $30 million contract this summer, but that obviously doesn’t mean he will necessarily remain with the Wizards for the entirety of the deal.

    A few weeks ago new Lakers head coach J.J. Redick revealed who the team needed to trade for ASAP.

    Valanciunas’ strengths would definitely align with what Redick wants.

    The question now is whether the front office can deliver. Thus far this summer they haven’t been able to, but if Windhorst is saying acquiring Valanciunas is a possibility for the Lakers, it has to be rooted in something real.

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    • 4 months, 1 week ago

    https://x.com/WindhorstESPN/status/1815351890139623853

    LeBron voted by peers to be flag bearer for USA team at Olympics
    Posts
    July 22, 2024
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      LakerTom
      4 months, 1 week ago

    • Profile picture of Buba
      Buba
      4 months, 1 week ago

      LeBron James being chosen by his peers as the flag bearer for this year’s Olympics is a truly golden honor. This prestigious recognition highlights his exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and the immense respect he commands. It is a powerful testament to his influence and the high regard in which he is held by fellow athletes to his leadership, dedication, and the immense respect he commands both on and off the court. LeBron’s selection as flag bearer symbolizes his unwavering commitment to excellence and his inspiring influence on athletes worldwide.

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    LakerTom wrote a new post

    • 4 months, 1 week ago

    https://x.com/LakerTom/status/1814851552924082623

    Lakers blowout Bulls in final game of Summer League
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    July 20, 2024
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    • Profile picture of Buba
      Buba
      4 months, 1 week ago

      The Lakers’ dominant victory over the Bulls in the final game of the summer league wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. While some might dismiss it as “too little, too late,” this performance showcased a team that has found its rhythm and chemistry. As the tournament progressed, the Lakers demonstrated significant growth and cohesion. This newfound synergy was the key to the blowout win. The Lakers’ summer league journey is a testament to their potential and resilience, proving that they can rise to the occasion, even though it came at a time where the win won’t matter.

    • Profile picture of Buba
      Buba
      4 months, 1 week ago

      Watching the summer league has reignited my thoughts about three promising young players I had hoped the Lakers would retain: Scottie Pippen Jr., Cole Swider, and Mac McClung. Each of them brought unique skills and potential that could have significantly contributed to the team’s future.

      Then there’s Moses Brown, a player I’ve had my eye on ever since his remarkable 20-rebound game with the Thunder a few years back. His recent addition to the Lakers feels like a stroke of luck, almost as if he fell right into our lap. Brown’s presence could be a game-changer, providing the rebounding prowess and interior defense the Lakers desperately need.

      These players represent untapped potential and the kind of youthful energy that could rejuvenate the Lakers. Their development and integration into the team could be the catalyst for a new era of success. It’s time to recognize the value these kind of players bring and invest in their growth for the brighter future of the franchise.

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