But on the heels of a 17-65 season and amid a transition to a new coach in Luke Walton, it will take some masterful persuasion for the Lakers to lure their big-name targets.
Below is a breakdown of the latest buzz surrounding Los Angeles as it prepares to hopefully land at least one proven, all-star caliber addition to the roster.
Kevin Durant's Visit Schedule Finalized, Won't Meet with Lakers Turner Sports' David Aldridge reported Durant will meet with the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday, the Golden State Warriors and Clippers on Friday, the San Antonio Spurs and Boston Celtics on Saturday and the Miami Heat on Sunday.
ESPN insider Chris Broussard confirmed earlier on Wednesday that the Lakers indeed wouldn't get a shot to give their pitch to the four-time NBA scoring champion.
Any of the destinations Durant chooses ultimately hurts the Purple and Gold. Their Staples Center rival, the Clippers, would stand to widen their advantage in the battle for L.A. basketball glory by acquiring Durant.
It'd almost feel like cheating if Golden State or San Antonio got "KD," considering they were the top two teams in the West this past season.
Only the Celtics have won more NBA titles than the Lakers, so Durant's departure there would also be a hit to L.A. from a long-view perspective. Miami had a strong 2015-16 campaign in finishing third in the East and could challenge for the top spot in the conference with Durant in the fold.
Now that they know they won't have a shot at the most sought-after free agent, the Lakers will have to pivot to other marquee players they're coveting.
Lakers Among Teams Interested in Mi...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
