5 Lakers Playing Their Final Postseason in Los Angeles

4. Harry Giles, PF/C

Harry Giles is another veteran who didn't join the Lakers until the latter half of the 2023-24 campaign. Like Dinwiddie, Giles was waived by the Nets at the trade deadline only to sign with the Lakers on a two-way deal nearly one month later.

In the past, Giles — a former 2017 first-round selection — was a decent backup big-man option. It'd be great if he could fill that role on Los Angeles' roster, but that hasn't been the case. The former Duke Blue Devil is only averaging 0.3 points and 0.3 rebounds with a 16.7 FG% while playing nearly three minutes per night across six games and hasn't even suited up since March 27.

I just don't see a world where the Lakers re-sign Giles after his abysmal performance. Even though he's only 25, it looks like his best years are behind him and he no longer looks like an everyday NBAer. Forget about Los Angeles: it's going to take a lot for him to convince any team to sign him.

Hopefully, Giles figures out how to get his game back on track because he was solid earlier in his career. A fresh start is what's clearly needed, so look for him to attempt a comeback with another team (or an entirely different league).

5. LeBron James, PF/C

Lakers fans don't want to imagine a world without LeBron James, but it's something that must be considered in the coming months.

James has been nothing but terrific since joining the Lakers back in 2018. The four-time NBA MVP has remained one of the league's best players even at this stage of his career and nobody will forget his delivering a championship to Los Angeles in 2020 (even if it took place in the infamous Bubble).

As great as this run has been, all good things come to an end and that could be the case for the 39-year-old's time in Los Angeles. After all, James heads into the 2024 NBA offseason with a $51.4 million player option. Considering how he's been open to wanting to play at least one season with his son, Bronny, it's entirely possible that "The King" opts out and signs with whichever team drafts his heir.

Additionally, opting out of his player option is the only pathway to James getting another no-trade clause on his contract. That's not to say that he won't re-sign with the Lakers if he chooses that direction, but it does open the door to other teams offering him a deal.

Hopefully, James realizes that sticking with the Lakers is the best way to win one more championship — potentially even with his son. Otherwise, this could be the greatest NBA player's last postseason in Tinseltown.

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