Lakers rumors: Signing Blake Griffin could solve things for year in case Paul George isn’t dealt
By Keith Rivas
The latest Lakers rumors look at a potential early signing the team could make.
While Lakers rumors continue to make way about a Paul George deal, the Lakers need a back up plan. This is just in case George isn’t dealt to them and instead goes to another team for a year as a self-described rental.
Meanwhile, a forward such as Blake Griffin could make a huge impact on the team, especially given their draft choices. There’s room to believe that Paul George is an absolute lock to come to Los Angeles — whether that is via trade or free agency.
However, while waiting, the Lakers would be foolish to pass up a chance at contending quicker.
With Lonzo Ball, the Lakers are looking to establish a new identity in a changing game and changing league.
Signing Griffin to a reasonable deal and then keeping their options open for next summer in terms of a trade could become a reality. Griffin may want to keep his game in Los Angeles, while the Clippers may pass on him.
Additionally, both he and Chris Paul have officially opted out of their deals to enter the market. It’s fair game for the Lakers, and would be another aggressive move by their front office.
Some fans like what they see out of Magic Johnson so far, while others remain skeptical. Getting Griffin would be another considerable choice, but if it panned out, the fans would be forever grateful.
It’s not that they’ll be impatient waiting for George, but if another player gets dealt — possibly someone like Julius Randle — they’ll need to be good at all five positions to contend.
Paul George isn’t coming to lose. The Lakers need to accept that and build accordingly.
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If not, they risk losing a lot in the long run.