How the Lakers can set the right price for Julius Randle

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They have to realize a superstar isn’t going to solve everything

Nothing wrong with being optimistic, especially given their luck in the last few summers when it comes to getting big names; especially with someone like Magic Johnson in charge.

But overhyping the situation they’re in? Definitely not the right thing to do.

Well, in the case of the Lakers, here’s the thing — now they have the financial means for two max deals and they’ve got quality superstars in their sights. The more realistic acquisition would be Paul George over LeBron James, but that’s because George has been linked to Los Angeles since his days as part of the Pacers.

The reality check the Lakers are setting them up for isn’t an easy one, though. While it’s great that the free agents with a strong chance to come to the team are there and the money is open to dish out, the young core is stepping up at exactly the right time.

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And while that wouldn’t be too much of an issue in most other franchises, when it comes to the Lakers, it is the perfect storm.

Let me break down what I mean by that.

Let’s say they do go the max contract route when they can first technically approach George in July and he agrees pretty quickly into the free agency period. Great, Magic Johnson has signed an official superstar to co-exist with Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, and Kyle Kuzma. But at the same time, now you’ve got to either place Julius Randle at center and go small there or put him in the second unit which he won’t be thrilled about.

People won’t want to admit it, but by signing George they both get what Johnson so desperately wants to try and improve the image in Los Angeles, but it cuts off what looks like would be a crucial part to the young core moving forward.

If you look at things that way, imagine how much the young core would be cut off if they signed Paul George and LeBron James.

Going that extra mile to then get two superstars in your starting lineup means a confused role for Randle mixed with a hard decision to make as to what Kyle Kuzma and Brandon Ingram really mean to the team.

And if they’re not important, then what does that really say about value when it comes to a young core. Either the management doesn’t care — which could be true — or they don’t understand how to groom young talent and won’t admit it.

Either way isn’t a good look, but that’s the unfortunate part about the decisions for the team being in someone else’s control.

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