Specifically, the team needs veteran leadership. General manager Mitch Kupchak hasn't been shy about stating that.
Talking to the media after the team acquired Brandon Ingram and Ivica Zubac in the 2016 NBA draft, Kupchak alluded to how important it would be for the team to surround the young talent with older players who could be leaders that help them win games now, per Joey Ramirez of Lakers.com:
I think history tells you that a bunch of young guys on a team is probably not a good thing. They look around for leadership and advice from somebody who’s been through this a couple of times, and if there’s nobody to talk to then they really don’t know how to handle the situation. So I think we will look to add some veteran leadership and hopefully not only leadership, but guys who can help us win games. It’s unlikely that would come about trade, although it’s possible. But it’s more likely to come about through free agency.
Fortunately for Los Angeles, there are some options on the market that could fulfill the role that Kupchak is looking for.
The possibilities range from highly unlikely to a good bet, so the Lakers will be one of the most interesting teams come July 1. Here's a look at the latest on the big names that the Lakers will (or won't) be pursuing in a few short days.
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Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
