Lakers-Grizzlies trade prediction sends ex-UGA $66M 3-D wing to LA, reuniting with LeBron James
The Los Angeles Lakers have made it a priority this summer to show Luka Dončić that he is a central part of their future. Dončić was traded to the Lakers last February and has since teamed up with one of the greatest players of all time, LeBron James. He recently agreed to an extension with the team — and made a generous gesture aimed at supporting young athletes.
'Today I'm also committing $5 million to help 77 young athletes around the world chase their dreams, just like I did. Basketball gave me everything, and I'm lucky to be able to give back and help the next generation,' Dončić posted.
The biggest challenge for the Lakers this offseason has been keeping James satisfied, knowing his window to win another championship is closing. While the organization has made it clear that the future is being built around Dončić, this has left James with questions. Still, Dončić isn't looking to wait around either — he wants to win now.
'Dončić being just 26 gives the Lakers a far longer timeline to build a championship-contending team, but that doesn't mean they can slow down and take their time. Dončić told Lakers president Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick in May that he's not interested in taking the slow approach in building a contender,' CBS Sports' Jasmyn Wimbish wrote.
With both Dončić and James eager to contend immediately, the Lakers could look to make a trade for a familiar face.
'Let's start with one that pretty much any Lakers fan can get behind. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope eventually became one of the best role players in the league, starting with the Lakers' 2020 title team and carrying through his years in Denver,' Silver Screen and Roll's Jacob Rude wrote. 'Lakers fans have seen how well KCP plays next to stars firsthand. Even if his game has dropped off, he's still a 3&D wing and you can never have too many of those. It's a far more useful way for the Lakers to spend their money than on Vincent and Kleber.'
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Bringing back Caldwell-Pope would reunite James with one of his most trusted former teammates from the early years of his Lakers tenure. The move could help free up cap space while also strengthening the team's depth on the wing — a key need if the Lakers want to contend now.
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