Once the dust settles from the 2023 <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-top-3-most-likely-destinations-for-draymond-green-in-case-of-warriors-exit-2-20230621-SPD-3749.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA Draft</a>, free agency will become the front and center of the summer. <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-top-3-best-free-agents-that-could-be-available-in-2023-20230618-SPD-3728.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kyrie Irving</a>, an NBA All-Star guard, is expected to become a free agent this summer. 



He hopes to sign another long-term, expensive contract after being dealt to the Dallas Mavericks from the Brooklyn Nets in February. A maximum deal may be what Irving is after, but after years of contentious comments and choices on and off the court, the market for the erratic player isn’t exactly strong. 



Even so, Irving remains one of the NBA’s most gifted offensive players, and as we saw with Dallas’ trade for him in February, there will always be a club ready to take a chance on him. In anticipation of Irving’s impending free agency on June 30th, here are three potential destinations for him to take up residence in, as per CBS Sports.



<h2>3. Houston Rockets</h2>



It would be surprising to see Irving sign with the Rockets if they failed to get James Harden, but it has been claimed that he will speak with numerous clubs when free agency begins. It’s possible that Irving and his team are using this as leverage to attempt to convince the Mavericks to increase their offer.



It may not go down well in Dallas, however, since there aren’t many clubs that would be willing to pay what he’s asking. If winning is the most crucial factor for Irving, then Dallas is the clear winner between the two Texas clubs with Doncic currently on the roster.



<h2>2. Los Angeles Lakers</h2>



Even though the Lakers haven’t been linked to another Irving in recent reports (rather the contrary has been reported), it doesn’t mean they won’t do it again. The Lakers would have to do some serious financial juggling to get Irving to Los Angeles, but it’s doable if both teams are committed to working together. Even more so if Irving forwent a max deal in favor of a wage reduction.



<h2>1. Dallas Mavericks</h2>



Re-signing Irving is expected to be Dallas’ top priority this summer. The Mavericks acquired him in a blockbuster trade at the February trade deadline that cost them Dorian Finney-Smith, Spencer Dinwiddie, an unprotected first-round selection in 2029, and two second-round choices.



The recorded problems in Boston and Brooklyn show that Dallas should negotiate a little before signing Irving, but granting him a max contract carries a high degree of risk. Even though Irving has a lot of issues that might restrict his time with the Mavericks last season, he is undeniably a dynamic offensive threat in the few games he played in.

NBA: Top 3 most likely destinations for free agent Kyrie Irving

NBA: Top 3 most likely destinations for free agent Kyrie Irving - thesportsdrops NEWS

miniaturas

The <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-top-3-possible-targets-for-warriors-to-bolster-roster-20230529-SPD-3660.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors</a> will do everything in their power to re-sign <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-top-3-most-likely-destinations-for-chris-paul-in-case-of-suns-exit-20230607-SPD-3679.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Draymond Green</a>. Without him, they have almost little chance of winning the NBA title this season.



It is anticipated that Green will return to the Bay Area. He may return to the franchise that drafted him after signing a three- or four-year contract for $100 million to $120 million.



But suppose that isn’t the situation. He is a free agent with several suitors and may choose to sign with anybody he pleases. In light of this, we will discuss three potential stops should he decide to leave the Warriors.



<h2>3. Portland Trail Blazers</h2>



The Portland Trail Blazers are making every effort to surround star point guard Damian Lillard with equally talented teammates. They need a tough interior defender, and his exceptional playmaking skills might propel him to the next level.



The Warriors might benefit from a sign-and-trade involving Green, who would provide the Blazers with two seasoned players and some valuable assets in exchange.



<h2>2. Los Angeles Lakers</h2>



Never count out the Los Angeles Lakers, as they will never stop trying to sign the best players in the league. In a similar vein, a sign-and-trade would be necessary to finalize the transaction.



What the Lakers might give the Warriors beyond that first-round selection or D’Angelo Russell, who has already struggled in the Bay Area, is uncertain. Green is represented by the same agency as LeBron James and Anthony Davis, thus his prospects are high.



<h2>1. Miami Heat</h2>



It has been said that Pat Riley is putting in extra hours in his pursuit of a new superstar. The Miami Heat have previously come close to winning an NBA title too many times and need one more player to finally break through.



They’re watching Damian Lillard, but if they don’t land him, they could go after Draymond Green, a tough leader who would mesh well with their current roster and Jimmy Butler.

NBA: Top 3 most likely destinations for Draymond Green in case of Warriors exit - thesportsdrops NEWS

NBA: Top 3 most likely destinations for Draymond Green in case of Warriors exit

<a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-top-3-possible-all-star-targets-for-celtics-for-next-season-20230605-SPD-3673.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Austin Reaves</a> is a player that shows promise for the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-top-3-most-likely-destinations-for-chris-paul-in-case-of-suns-exit-20230607-SPD-3679.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a>. As the season progressed, he earned more and more playing time under Darvin Ham, eventually becoming a starting player for the NBA’s playoff push.



Whether he’s starting or coming off the bench, Reaves always brings a ton of enthusiasm. He played with complete assurance and eventually became a crucial cog in the postseason thanks to many outstanding performances.



Of course, he also played himself into a huge deal, and now other clubs will try to lure him away from LeBron James and Anthony Davis. We’ll check out a few of the squads below.



<h2>3. Houston Rockets</h2>



The Houston Rockets would want to not finish last any longer than necessary. By bringing in Ime Udoka, they want to go back to winning ways and maybe even challenge for James Harden’s services.



As such, they want to spend heavily this summer, and according to league sources, one of their top priorities is to sign Reaves on a very expensive five-year contract.



<h2>2. San Antonio Spurs</h2>



He would also be a great match for the San Antonio Spurs, who have plenty of money to spend in free agency and are trying to assemble a youthful, competitive squad.



Gregg Popovich is going to center his squad on the top choice in the 2018 NBA Draft, Victor Wembanyama, and Reaves is exactly the kind of hard-working, high-energy player Popovich enjoys coaching.



<h2>1. Los Angeles Lakers</h2>



Austin Reaves might have offers of up to $100 million, but the Los Angeles Lakers are allegedly willing to match any deal. No one wants to repeat the error of hiring Alex Caruso.



With a $54 million deal in the works, it would be in everyone’s best interest to keep him around. Nonetheless, they will certainly have to fork out the dough now that other clubs are also keeping an eye on him.

NBA: Top 3 most likely destinations for Austin Reaves in case of Lakers exit - thesportsdrops NEWS

NBA: Top 3 most likely destinations for Austin Reaves in case of Lakers exit

<a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-top-3-possible-targets-for-76ers-to-bolster-roster-20230602-SPD-3669.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chris Paul</a> was once widely regarded as one of the league’s top point guards. And although he still has that distinction if we speak about the league’s history, the Phoenix Suns realized that wasn’t the case recently.



In light of this, the difficult decision was taken to release the former superstar, bringing an end to his illustrious run in the Valley of the Sun. Last season he was plagued by injuries, and his scoring explosions became more rare.



Still, many clubs in the league are in need of a point guard. There’s no reason to doubt that he can continue his successful mentoring role beyond his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Keeping that in mind, we examine the top three locations that may accommodate him.



<h2>3. Miami Heat</h2>



It was almost completed this season, but Pat Riley’s lack of alertness prevented the Miami Heat from trading Kyle Lowry. They need a new point guard and Chris Paul is still a top player despite his advanced age.



Paul is a great match for Erik Spoelstra and Heat Culture, but he may not be the answer in the long run. He’s a defender and the sort of pass-first facilitator that will help them reach new heights in the offensive department.



<h2>2. Los Angeles Lakers</h2>



When it comes to getting what he needs, <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-top-3-possible-all-star-targets-for-celtics-for-next-season-20230605-SPD-3673.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> generally doesn’t have to wait. One of his closest buddies is a point guard who is now a free agent and is being pursued by the Los Angeles Lakers.



D’Angelo Russell’s time in Los Angeles was a failure, and rumor has it that LeBron James doesn’t like him very much. They have one last shot at a championship if they join forces with CP3.



<h2>1. Chicago Bulls</h2>



Time is of the essence for the Chicago Bulls. After a promising start to Arturas Karnisovas’ tenure, the club has been disorganized for the better part of a year. They’re lost, yet they have no interest in starting again.



With Lonzo Ball possibly retiring from professional basketball, the team has a major gaping vacuum at the point guard position. In their desperation, they may even attempt to buy out an aged Chris Paul if the deal doesn’t work out.

NBA: Top 3 most likely destinations for Chris Paul in case of Suns exit - thesportsdrops NEWS

NBA: Top 3 most likely destinations for Chris Paul in case of Suns exit

The NBA is full of unexpected twists and turns. Even <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-top-3-most-likely-destinations-for-giannis-antetokounmpo-in-case-of-bucks-exit-20230510-SPD-3629.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Draymond Green</a>, who has alluded to leaving the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-greatest-2023-nba-mvp-award-snubs-20230503-SPD-3616.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors</a> in the past, may be traded at any time.



Since Green assumed the starting PF role for the Warriors, he has been an integral component of the team’s historic run of success. Some others believe he’s overstayed his welcome since he’s been at the center of so many controversies.



Whatever the case may be, and despite his lack of scoring prowess, Green should get a great deal of interest from teams throughout the league. In light of this, here are three potential suitors for the reigning Defensive Player of the Year.



<h2>3. Portland Trail Blazers</h2>



The Portland Trail Blazers have a choice to make: whether to blow up the current squad and start over by trading star point guard Damian Lillard or to give the current group one more shot. If the latter is the case, then acquiring Draymond is an obvious move.



Despite rumors to the contrary, Green did not join the Portland Trail Blazers. Therefore, it appears like a good time for both parties to try to move on from one another.



<h2>2. Los Angeles Lakers</h2>



That Draymond Green, forward for the Golden State Warriors, is a huge admirer of LeBron James is common knowledge at this time. After years of supporting one other in the media, Green and James have turned their formerly heated on-court competition into a solid relationship.



In the same way that Rich Paul and Klutch Sports represent LeBron and Anthony Davis, they also represent Green. Both LeBron and the Los Angeles Lakers are notorious talent magnets. The opportunity to realize his ambitions should not be wasted.



<h2>1. Dallas Mavericks</h2>



The Dallas Mavericks will never be able to break through until they improve their defense and tenacity. Draymond Green satisfies all requirements and would be a tremendous asset to the Warriors’ playoff hopes.



Without another ball-handler—one of Green’s strengths—Luka Doncic cannot single-handedly lead this club far into the playoffs, regardless of whether Kyrie Irving is on the squad or not. With Jason Kidd at the helm, he might contribute to a winning culture.

By becoming the NBA’s all-time scoring leader, <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/lebron-james-and-other-nba-greats-who-could-have-had-successful-nfl-careers-20221221-SPD-3274.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> has solidified his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. His total of 38,387 points is more than the previous record established by <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/no-relationship-between-lebron-james-and-kareem-abdul-jabbar-20221005-SPD-2922.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</a>, a forward who achieved that mark in 1989.



With the Los Angeles Lakers taking on the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Crypto.com Arena in Downtown Los Angeles, James set the mark in the 20th season of his legendary career. A 21-foot jumper made by the Los Angeles Lakers great late in the third quarter on Tuesday against the Oklahoma City Thunder sent him over the 38,387-point mark, previously held by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.



In comparison to the 1,560 games it took Abdul-Jabbar to reach that mark, James reached that milestone in little more than 1,400 games played. Michael Jordan’s 30.1 points per game are the most ever in NBA history. James’ 27.1 places him seventh all-time, second only to Kevin Durant among currently active players (27.3).



<h2>LeBron James’ NBA career highlights and awards</h2>



<ul><li>4× NBA champion (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020)</li><li>4× NBA Finals MVP (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020)</li><li>4× NBA Most Valuable Player (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013)</li><li>19× NBA All-Star (2005–2023)</li><li>3× NBA All-Star Game MVP (2006, 2008, 2018)</li><li>13× All-NBA First Team (2006, 2008–2018, 2020)</li><li>3× All-NBA Second Team (2005, 2007, 2021)</li><li>2× All-NBA Third Team (2019, 2022)</li><li>5× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2009–2013)</li><li>NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2014)</li><li>NBA Rookie of the Year (2004)</li><li>NBA All-Rookie First Team (2004)</li><li>NBA scoring champion (2008)</li><li>NBA assists leader (2020)</li><li>NBA all-time leading scorer</li><li>NBA 75th Anniversary Team</li><li>4× AP Athlete of the Year (2013, 2016, 2018, 2020)</li><li>3× Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year (2012, 2016, 2020)</li><li>Time Athlete of the Year (2020)</li><li>USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2012)</li></ul>

How many records does LeBron James hold? Complete list of the forward's records in NBA - thesportsdrops NEWS

How many records does LeBron James hold? Complete list of the forward's records in NBA

<a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/james-harden-goran-dragic-and-all-nba-players-available-for-trade-after-december-15-20221211-SPD-3247.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kyle Kuzma</a> told The Atheltic this week that he does not intend to sign an extension with the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-teams-in-2022-23-nba-season-so-far-20221210-SPD-3243.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington Wizards</a> and would instead reject his player option for the 2023-24 season in order to become a free agent this summer.



While the Wizards have shown flashes of becoming a playoff contender this season, they haven’t done so in the previous two weeks, leading to speculation regarding Kyle Kuzma’s future with the organization. The 27-year-old Kuzma has become an integral part of the Wizards’ roster, so his intentions shouldn’t come as a shock.



 Washington, which has $208 million committed to Beal over the next four seasons and who also has Kristaps Porzingis under contract for next season through a player option, may move Kuzma at the February 9 trade deadline for valued assets rather than letting him depart in free agency with no return. Now that he may be available in a trade, let’s examine the top three landing spots for him.



<h2>3. Atlanta Hawks</h2>



John Collins is still available for a trade, and it’s becoming obvious that this squad needs some new blood. In terms of overall improvement, swapping Collins for Kuzma would not be a huge step forward, but he would be a better fit for the team.



Kuzma is superior at perimeter defense and can also contribute offensively by making three-point shots. Furthermore, the Atlanta Hawks have a wealth of promising young players they may employ to sweeten the deal.



<h2>2. Brooklyn Nets</h2>



The Washington Wizards have apparently been contacted by the Brooklyn Nets about making Kuzma available. As he satisfies both their idealized personality and their on-court requirements, this is not a shock.



T.J. Warren hasn’t done much to impress, so they could use another big man to aid them on the boards, come up with their own scoring opportunities, and relieve Kevin Durant of some of the load. It’s not like he’s a lockdown stopper, but he’d be an improvement on defense anyway.



<h2>1. Los Angeles Lakers</h2>



Without a doubt, the Los Angeles Lakers are still smarting from the Russell Westbrook deal. He has never tried to hide the fact that he is deeply in love with Los Angeles.



The influence of stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Kuzma said, stunted his growth. But he also understands that his chances of winning a championship are better while wearing purple and gold.

Return to Hawks and two other possible landing spots for Kyle Kuzma

Return to Hawks and two other possible landing spots for Kyle Kuzma - thesportsdrops NEWS

Even though <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/no-relationship-between-lebron-james-and-kareem-abdul-jabbar-20221005-SPD-2922.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> guard <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/russell-westbrook-to-stay-put-at-lakers-at-least-until-thanksgiving-holiday-20221020-SPD-3010.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russell Westbrook</a> has been under intense criticism once again in the last week, several NBA players have come out in his favor. It was said that before the Lakers’ last preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Westbrook distanced himself from his teammates and then later joined a team huddle while they were being blown away.



The 33-year-old subsequently elaborated that he hadn’t been anywhere near the presentation of L.A.’s starting 5 due to his pregame ritual, which hasn’t altered in years. Even when the guard said he was “all in” on winning, the Lakers’ diehard fans still questioned his dedication.



Some current and past NBA players have come to Westbrook’s defense lately. These include Paul George of the Los Angeles Clippers and Isaiah Thomas, formerly of the Los Angeles Lakers. <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/turmoil-surrounding-kevin-durants-trade-request-to-nets-played-down-by-steve-nash-20220929-SPD-2865.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kevin Durant,</a> now of the Brooklyn Nets, is the latest one to defend his old colleague.



<h2>What Kevin Durant said about Russell Westbrook’s criticism</h2>



“I mean Russ always did [that pre-game routing]. It feels like he was just getting his mind right, just his own routine before the game. But if you play in L.A. next to the biggest figure in sports in LeBron James, everything you do is gonna be magnified, especially if the outside perception is that your team is gonna struggle. People don’t trust that your team is gonna be good”, Durant told Boardroom.



“That’s how they feel about us, the Lakers, teams that they had high hopes for last year that didn’t come through. The Lakers got a big microscope on them so you got to be on point every time. So if Russell misses a layup it’s gonna be blown out of proportion. If he misses a 3, he might be 5 for 7, but he missed those two shots, you know what I’m saying?”



“I understand that there’s certain points where you don’t play well and you are open to criticism when you don’t play well — we get that. But it’s like now you’re making him the butt of your jokes. It’s getting to a point where it’s like alright, I get the criticism for what he did that night, but now it’s starting to reach a different level with some shit that I don’t understand right now. So hopefully he just keeps hooping and blocks all that noise out and prove to everybody that they’re wrong about how they feel about his game and they mesh over there in L.A. But when we play them, I hope they play shitty, but I hope all that stuff works out because I hate how they talk. The dialogue around our game is just so toxic at this point. I get criticism, but it’s starting to turn into something else right now.”

"NBA is so toxic at this point" - Kevin Durant stands up for former teammate Russell Westbrook - thesportsdrops NEWS

"NBA is so toxic at this point" – Kevin Durant stands up for former teammate Russell Westbrook

The summer of trade talks, difficult news conferences, and media shots didn’t quite pay off, as <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-rumors-how-patrick-beverley-trade-could-impact-future-of-russell-westbrook-at-lakers-2618-20220827-SPD-2618.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russell Westbrook</a> has begun the 2022-23 NBA season while at <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-rumors-the-russell-westbrook-trade-the-lakers-have-seriously-considered-20221004-SPD-2889.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a>. However, this fact does not suggest that a major deal will not be made in the near future. Apparently, until around game 20, the Lakers plan to wait to make any trades.



After Thanksgiving, the Lakers will reportedly take a second look at the issue. According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports that they are banking on a shift in the trade market as a result of clubs’ bad starts, leading some to consider a rebuild in light of Victor Wembanyama’s likely availability in the next NBA Draft.



A trade involving Russell Westbrook and the Lakers’ 2027 and 2029 first-round choices would potentially provide a larger return for the latter team. The uncertainty of what may occur between now and Thanksgiving is a possible weakness of the strategy.



<h2>The issue with waiting until Thanksgiving for Lakers to trade Westbrook</h2>



Tuesday, the day before Thanksgiving, marks the Lakers’ 16th game. On Thursday, they’ll take on the Clippers, and then on the following days, they’ll face Portland, Denver, Minnesota, Denver once more, and finally, New Orleans, all of whom are currently in the postseason hunt.



Following that, they have two games against the Utah Jazz, who were widely predicted to be weaker than they really are after their opening night thrashing of the Nuggets. Prior to Thanksgiving, the Lakers will play the Cavaliers, the Nets, and a rematch versus the Clippers.

Russell Westbrook to stay put at Lakers at least until Thanksgiving holiday

Russell Westbrook to stay put at Lakers at least until Thanksgiving holiday - thesportsdrops NEWS

Almost everyone, including the NBA star himself, considers <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-rumors-the-russell-westbrook-trade-the-lakers-have-seriously-considered-20221004-SPD-2889.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Davis</a> a center. From the moment he came to Los Angeles, he made it clear that power forward was where he wanted to play. The <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/no-relationship-between-lebron-james-and-kareem-abdul-jabbar-20221005-SPD-2922.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lakers</a> have sometimes played him at center in high-pressure circumstances, but they’ve often chosen to pair him with a more conventional center. 



Though he and his club have discussed making a permanent transition in positions almost every summer, nothing has come of it. After Russell Westbrook’s injury last summer, many people speculated that he might go to the center. On the season’s first game night, DeAndre Jordan started in the middle. 



Thomas Bryant and Damian Jones, two free agents the Lakers acquired this summer, were presumably brought in so that Davis wouldn’t have to play center. Still, Lakers head coach Darvin Ham has been cautiously testing the waters of having the 29-year-old in the center lineup this week.



<h2>What Darvin Ham said of Anthony Davis</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Absolutely. I mean, it’s not a knockdown, drag-out, bruiser body type game anymore, you know, the game we play at this level. So AD starting at the five is definitely on the table. That’s something that’s under heavy, heavy consideration. “Here, we want to put our best five out there to start the game and be able to have a really solid rotation. Once we get to the end of the game, should that game be close, you know, we can have a variety of things in our back pocket and throw at the opposing team, but AD starting at the five. I think that’s, that’s definitely plausible.”</blockquote>



After the game, Davis said that he is open to playing whatever position coach Ham sees fit, albeit power forward is still his first choice. Davis added, “I trust Coach’s decision,” Davis said. “I mean, I’m pretty sure he heard A.D. wants to play the 4, so he knows where I stand, but at the end of the day, I want to win, so if that’s me playing the 5, that’s what it’s got to be.”

Anthony Davis has preference for different position at Lakers despite showing willingness to play center

Anthony Davis has preference for different position at Lakers despite showing willingness to play center - thesportsdrops NEWS

The <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/no-relationship-between-lebron-james-and-kareem-abdul-jabbar-20221005-SPD-2922.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> have renewed their trust in <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-rumors-how-patrick-beverley-trade-could-impact-future-of-russell-westbrook-at-lakers-2618-20220827-SPD-2618.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rob Pelinka</a> as the organization attempts to accommodate a new head coach, recover from one of the most dismal seasons in club history, and make the most of what remains of LeBron James’ outstanding career.



According to ESPN‘s reporting, league sources verified that the Lakers’ VP of basketball operations and general manager, Rob Pelinka, secured a contract extension in the summer that would keep him with the team through the 2025-26 season.



According to the insiders, the deal was finalized in June, around the time the organization named Darvin Ham as its 28th coach. Reports indicate that the move was made so that Ham could feel comfortable working with the front office during his time in Los Angeles.



<h2>Rob Pelinka to remain with Lakers until 2025-26 season</h2>



After spending most of his career as an agent for Kobe Bryant, the 52-year-old executive finally made his way to the front office in Los Angeles in 2017. First, he had to undo some of the moves made by former general manager Mitch Kupchak and coach Jim Buss.



After overseeing the team’s free agency acquisition of James in July 2018 and trade for Anthony Davis in June 2019, he was moved from general manager to vice president of basketball operations in January 2020. In the last four years, under Pelinka’s leadership, the franchise has also let go of coaches Luke Walton and Frank Vogel and front office leader Magic Johnson.

Rob Pelinka signs long-term extension with Lakers through 2026

Rob Pelinka signs long-term extension with Lakers through 2026 - thesportsdrops NEWS

There is no question that <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-rumors-the-russell-westbrook-trade-the-lakers-have-seriously-considered-20221004-SPD-2889.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> will eventually surpass <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/kawhi-leonard-to-make-injury-comeback-to-clippers-lineup-in-pre-season-game-against-trail-blazers-20221002-SPD-2883.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</a> as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Considering James is still playing at a high level and is coming off a year in which he averaged over 30 points per game, he should overtake the Los Angeles Lakers star and Hall of Famer at some point this season. 



Assuming he remains healthy, James has a shot at the record midway through the season if he scores around the same number of points for the Lakers as he did last year.



This is a big deal for the start of the season, but LeBron didn’t say much about his feelings toward or history with Abdul-Jabbar. LeBron James was questioned about the Lakers’ legendary former player and whether or not the two were related after Monday night’s pre-season opener.



<h2>LeBron James gives frigid answer on possibility of breaking Kareem’s record</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“No thoughts, and no relationship,” James said.</blockquote>



It was a very frigid comment about a real legend of the Lakers and the NBA, and someone with whom James will be associated for months. The veteran is now 1,325 points short of catching up to Abdul-all-time Jabbar’s record of 38,387 as the new year begins. He would need only 49 games to reach the mark if he kept up his career scoring average of 27.1 points per contest.

'No relationship' between LeBron James and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

'No relationship' between LeBron James and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar - thesportsdrops NEWS

Following a poor <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/i-made-the-playoffs-last-year-they-didnt-patrick-beverley-pokes-fun-at-new-teammates-lebron-james-and-anthony-davis-2706-20220907-SPD-2706.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first season</a> with the Lakers, <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-rumors-how-patrick-beverley-trade-could-impact-future-of-russell-westbrook-at-lakers-2618-20220827-SPD-2618.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russell Westbrook</a>‘s days in Los Angeles looked numbered. For many, there was no way the team would keep him for the 2022-23 NBA season.



However, it turns out that the team may actually give it another shot with the former NBA MVP. Westbrook picked up his player option this offseason, and the team seems fine about <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-rumors-russell-westbrook-willing-to-make-big-commitment-for-the-lakers-2693-20220906-SPD-2693.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">running things back</a> together.



Darvin Ham heaped praise on him from day one, Jeanie Buss also admired his availability last season, and even <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-news-lakers-committed-to-helping-lebron-james-but-theres-a-catch-20220927-SPD-2849.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> supported Brodie. However, according to Shams Charania, the Lakers have seriously considered trading Westbrook to the Pacers.



<h2>NBA Rumors: Lakers considered sending Russell Westbrook to Indiana</h2>



(Via The Athletic)



“On the cusp of training camp, as media day neared and the topic of Westbrook’s uncertain future continued to dominate the conversation around the NBA, sources with direct knowledge of the negotiations say the Lakers’ key decision-makers spent several days engaged in deep conversations about the feasibility of a blockbuster trade with Indiana.



“Vice president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka, owner Jeanie Buss and senior basketball adviser Kurt Rambis seriously considered sending Westbrook and unprotected first-round picks in 2027 and 2029 to the Pacers for center Myles Turner and guard Buddy Hield, sources said.“

NBA Rumors: The Russell Westbrook trade the Lakers have seriously considered

NBA Rumors: The Russell Westbrook trade the Lakers have seriously considered - thesportsdrops NEWS

The <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-rumors-russell-westbrook-willing-to-make-big-commitment-for-the-lakers-2693-20220906-SPD-2693.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> want to leave two <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/i-made-the-playoffs-last-year-they-didnt-patrick-beverley-pokes-fun-at-new-teammates-lebron-james-and-anthony-davis-2706-20220907-SPD-2706.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disappointing seasons</a> behind to get back to glory days. The team may have work to do to get there, but with LeBron James on their roster, they are allowed to dream.



After months of speculation, The King put pen to paper to a contract extension with the Purple and Gold. He may be 37, but he is not showing any signs of slowing down. Instead, it looks like he has a lot left in the tank.



James is also a true competitor, so the front office must play its part and surround him with the right tools. <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/nba-rumors-how-patrick-beverley-trade-could-impact-future-of-russell-westbrook-at-lakers-2618-20220827-SPD-2618.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rob Pelinka</a> said the team will do an effort to put the best team possible around LeBron, but only if it’s a “smart” trade.



<h2>Rob Pelinka explains how Lakers plan to build around LeBron</h2>



“Let me abundantly clear: We have one of the great players in LeBron James to ever play the game on our team,” Pelinka said, via Fadeaway World. “He committed to us with a long-term contract, a three-year contract. So of course we will do everything we can, picks included, to make deals that give us a chance to help LeBron get to the end.



“He committed to our organization. That’s got to be a bilateral commitment, and it’s there. Again, as I started the question by saying, we are committed to doing everything we can to put the best team around LeBron as long as it’s a smart trade because of the limitations caused by the Stepien rule and the implications of that.”

NBA News: Lakers committed to helping LeBron James, but there's a catch

NBA News: Lakers committed to helping LeBron James, but there's a catch - thesportsdrops NEWS

Following his excellent play for Germany at the 2022 EuroBasket, <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/i-made-the-playoffs-last-year-they-didnt-patrick-beverley-pokes-fun-at-new-teammates-lebron-james-and-anthony-davis-2706-20220907-SPD-2706.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dennis Schroder</a> returns to the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/bill-russells-no-6-jersey-retired-by-nba-the-last-players-to-wear-no-6-for-each-team-2510-20220812-SPD-2510.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a>. After the playmaker departed the Lakers in 2021, everything went downhill for Schroder in the NBA. 



A few months before the 2022 NBA Finals between the Celtics and the Warriors, the guard signed with Boston but was moved to Houston midway through the season. However, Schroder’s performance for Germany in the EuroBasket has garnered him a lot of attention. 



The 29-year-old’s side advanced to the semi-finals because of his play, on average, of 21.6 points and 7.3 assists per game. When compared to the other four players who made it to the championship round, his point average was far and by the best.



<h2>Schroder opted for Lakers over Raptors and Suns</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">According to NBA source Shams Charania, who spoke with The Rally, Schroder chose the Lakers over the Toronto Raptors and the Phoenix Suns: “Dennis Schroder was deciding between a few teams, the Lakers, the Raptors as well as the Phoenix Suns, I’m told. But he decided to sign with the Lakers on a one-year, $2.6 million deal. A couple years ago, he played for the Lakers, he turned down a major extension. “But now he returns and he brings competitiveness, more depth in their backcourt — and this is a guy that played at a very high level just now for Germany in EuroBasket, led them to the semifinals. And this is a guy that’s going to come into camp. He’s been to the playoffs in seven of his nine NBA seasons. So this is a guy that’s battle-tested. The last time the Lakers made the playoffs in 2021, Dennis Schroder was their starting point guard.”</blockquote>



After signing with the Lakers, Schroder stated he was motivated to “put [explicit] right” and that it was a “honor” to represent Los Angeles in the NBA. Guard felt misunderstood and that “nobody truly knew the tale” about the strange circumstances surrounding his resignation from the Purple and Gold in 2021. The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly made an extension offer to Schroder worth up to $84 million for the 2020-21 season, but he turned it down.

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