In 2024, both LeBron James and Anthony Davis of the Los Angeles Lakers showcased outstanding performances, contributing to the team’s success with their health intact. Despite their stellar performances, the Lakers currently find themselves outside of playoff contention in the Western Conference.
With limited options for significant roster improvements, the Lakers must focus on rallying together, reminiscent of their previous season’s efforts, to stand a chance at contending for a championship. However, if this strategy falls short, the team will adhere to the natural progression of the NBA cycle, aiming to recruit the next potential superstar who could either complement LeBron and AD’s quest for a title or even serve as a successor to LeBron should he depart.
2024 all-stars that could soon be Lakers:
Jayson Tatum
Fortunately, the Lakers hold considerable allure for superstar players, surpassing that of any other franchise in the sport. Among the stars from the 2024 season, there are several potential candidates who could potentially join the Lakers in the near future.
Considering the possibilities, let’s entertain a hypothetical scenario. Of the players mentioned, Jayson Tatum joining the Lakers appears to be a far-reaching aspiration and likely lies further in the future. While odds favor Tatum remaining with the Boston Celtics and maximizing his earnings as a max contract player, there remains a slight chance of him opting for the Lakers in free agency.
Tatum’s affinity for the Lakers, evident in his self-professed fandom and admiration for Kobe Bryant, adds fuel to speculation. Despite his fandom, there’s no guarantee of his decision, but certain factors hint at the possibility. The Celtics are currently invested in a short-term championship pursuit with their existing core, yet sustaining this model under new luxury tax regulations may prove challenging. By the time Tatum reaches free agency after the 2024-25 season, the Celtics’ ability to build a championship-caliber team around him and Jaylen Brown might diminish.
With Tatum and Anthony Davis, the Lakers would have a similar issue, but Tatum would at least have a better partner in Davis. Unless LeBron signs a new contract this offseason, the Lakers would have the salary-cap space and the beloved chemistry to build on.
Though it is still conceivable, it is less likely than the other two players on this list (who would be traded for).
