NBA Trade Rumors: 10 Point guard targets for Lakers to replace D’Angelo Russell

Los Angeles Lakers trade target, Fred VanVleet (Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports)
Los Angeles Lakers trade target, Fred VanVleet (Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports)
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Kyrie Irving
Dallas Mavericks Kyrie Irving (Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports)

Kyrie Irving

Considering that Kyrie Irving has continuously been linked to the Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James for what feels like forever (really since last summer), it wouldn’t be all that surprising if the Lakers flirted with the possibility of acquiring Kyrie (who will be a free agent) this offseason. If Kyrie does indeed want a max contract, though, that could be tough for the Lakers to make it happen.

But if it’s something that LeBron wants to see the Lakers explore, I don’t think we’ve heard the last of the Kyrie-to-LA narrative. From a strict basketball talent perspective, it’s easy to see why LeBron and the Lakers would want to target Kyrie. He’s one of the most talented basketball players that has ever played in the NBA. The problem with Kyrie is everything other than basketball talent.

The Dallas Mavericks are expected to make it a priority to re-sign Kyrie this offseason, but if Kyrie and the Lakers want to make this pairing happen, it’s hard to see how the former is going to stand in the way.