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Lakers Rumors: Five-step offseason checklist to win in 2018

By Jason Reed

CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 26: Head coach Luke Walton of the Los Angeles Lakers watches as his team takes on the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on January 26, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. The Lakers defeated the Bulls 108-103. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 26: Head coach Luke Walton of the Los Angeles Lakers watches as his team takes on the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on January 26, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. The Lakers defeated the Bulls 108-103. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) – Lakers Rumors
(Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) – Lakers Rumors /

1. Re-sign Julius Randle to a four-year deal

Regardless what happens in the 2018 summer, if the Los Angeles Lakers are unable to re-sign Julius Randle, Laker fans will have a sour taste in their mouth. Unless the team somehow gets Anthony Davis for a second-round draft pick and Luol Deng — you get the picture.

Randle is entering the offseason as a restricted free agent, so the ball is still in the Lakers’ court. While other teams are still able to offer Randle a contract, the Lakers ultimately get to decide if he stays or goes. If the Lakers cannot agree to a deal with Randle, and he agrees to a deal elsewhere, Los Angeles must match that offer sheet to keep him on the roster.

Prior to the season, all Lakers rumors pointed to Randle not being a long-time Laker. At first, his name was floated around with Jordan Clarkson as a trade chip to get Luol Deng’s contract off of the payroll.

When his name was not in trade discussions, it still was not pretty. Randle lost the starting job to Larry Nance Jr. to start the season and failed to agree on an extension with the Lakers.

However, Randle was given an increased role after Nance was traded and he has played his way into a new contract. Randle has proven that he can be a nightly 20 point, 10 rebound guy that could even flirt with an all-star appearance next season.

The Lakers have $61 million in practical cap space to play with. With the current financial status of the NBA (not a lot of teams have much to spend), the Lakers may be able to secure Randle for four more seasons worth $40-45 million.

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