Lakers Rumors: Predicting Likelihood of Star Free Agents Signing with LA

The Los Angeles Lakers would need approximately $470 million in cap space to sign all of the free agents they're linked to through rumors.

No team is linked to more, partly because, well, they're the Lakers. The other reason is because most of their roster remains bare. Of course, many of these rumors are unrealistic.

Here are the unsigned stars Los Angeles has shown interest in this summer, according to sources, and the likelihood they're actually acquired.

 

SF LeBron James, Miami Heat

TNT's David Aldridge reported that the Lakers have met with James' agent.



However, for James to leave the Miami Heat, Los Angeles needs to convince him it's a championship-caliber team today—more so than any other team that could sign him. This includes the Heat, which he's led to four straight NBA Finals appearances.

For that to happen, Mitch Kupchak needs divine intervention. 

Laker Likelihood: When Zach Randolph flies.

 

SF Carmelo Anthony, New York Knicks

ESPN's Ramona Shelburne reported that the Lakers didn't try to convince Anthony to take any less than a max contract when they met this week.



The Knicks can offer Anthony the most money. They're the front-runners. But a healthy Kobe Bryant is more talented than any teammate Anthony would have in New York, which will keep Los Angeles' hopes alive.

Laker Likelihood: Slim, but not none.

 

PF Pau Gasol, Los Angeles Lakers

Shelburne also reported that, believe it or not, the Oklahoma City Thunder are the Lakers' greatest threat to re-signing Gasol.



According to the Los Angeles Times' Mike Bresnahan, though, Gasol will stay if the Lakers land Anthony. But as mentioned earlier, that's as easy as passing on more money and security for a ...

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