3 Moves the Lakers Can Make to Keep LeBron James (Without Drafting Bronny)
By Cem Yolbulan
Get Younger and More Athletic in Free Agency
One issue that ailed the Lakers in the last two postseasons was the fact that they were physically overwhelmed by the Denver Nuggets. Outside of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers don't have much size, speed, and athleticism. They need to address that this offseason.
In the 2023-24 season, the Lakers who played the most minutes besides James and Davis were Austin Reaves, D'Angelo Russell, Taurean Prince, and Rui Hachimura. All four of these players are underathletic for their positions. They are not fast, physically imposing, or particularly dynamic. They are not very good defenders, either.
In the grand scheme of things, this is the main reason the Lakers underachieved this season. They don't have enough quality role players. The ones they have are not two-way players, creating significant matchup problems depending on the opponent.
This should be a priority in free agency. The Lakers need to get young and athletic role players who can defend. Some potential free agents they could target are Kelly Oubre Jr, Precious Achiuwa, and Derrick Jones Jr.
If they can do that, LeBron James might feel like he can win with this team, potentially urging him to re-sign.
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