The Los Angeles Lakers are eager to make significant improvements this summer and are exploring various options. NBA insider Brian Lewis reports that GM Rob Pelinka is targeting Nets swingman Cam Johnson as a backup plan after missing out on top free agents.
Lewis highlights Johnson’s value due to his size (6-foot-8), age, and shooting ability, noting that only 10 NBA players 6-7 or taller averaged more than Johnson’s 2.4 made 3-pointers last season. While the Kings, Magic, and Lakers are interested, a recent report suggests the Spurs, Raptors, or Warriors could be dark horse contenders.
Although Johnson, 28, hasn’t been publicly made available, the Nets might consider offers following the trade of their franchise star, Mikal Bridges. If acquiring Johnson proves unfeasible, the Lakers could turn their attention to Bruce Brown, a versatile wing who excels on both ends of the floor.
NBA insider Brett Siegel writes, “The Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks showed interest in Brown last season, and Los Angeles remains interested this offseason.” He adds that the Golden State Warriors might also be in the mix, potentially moving Andrew Wiggins in a package deal that includes Brown and other assets to gain more financial flexibility.
Brown, an NBA champion, could significantly bolster the Lakers’ rotation with his two-way play and ability to guard multiple positions. For a team lacking star power, strengthening the supporting cast is crucial.
The Lakers are determined to keep searching for roster upgrades, knowing they owe it to LeBron James, still an elite player at 39, to assemble a competitive team in the Western Conference. Anthony Davis will also play a key role, coming off a season where he averaged 24.7 points and 12.6 rebounds per game.
The franchise must address its support and depth issues, which have been weak points under the current administration. Role-players like D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, and Cam Reddish were inconsistent last season, impacting the team’s performance when it mattered most.
If Pelinka can replace some of these players with proven, consistent role-players like Johnson or Brown, the Lakers could elevate to contender status next season. Standing pat is not an option, and the Lakers are actively seeking to make a trade before the start of training camp in a few months.
