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This was one loaded mailbag. Shouts to all the listeners who sent in all the questions. Y’all remain the bestest. Let’s get right to it. Between free agency rumors, the NBA Draft, trade options and everything in-between, there’s a ton to talk about regarding these Los Angeles Lakers.
To start the show, a listener asked if the Lakes should consider a sign-and-trade sending Julius Randle to the San Antonio Spurs for Kawhi Leonard, especially if LeBron James and/or Paul George agree to sign in free agency. It’s all about timing, but I expand on that in the show. Doing so also limits what the Lakers can do in regards to the salary cap, so there’s that to take into account.
On the George front, what gives with all the reports out of Oklahoma City that he’s seriously considering not signing in Los Angeles after all the hoops he’s jumped through for the mere opportunity to do so? I get into what might be going on behind the scenes. Is Aaron Mintz (who also happens to be Randle’s agent) using George to get Randle a better deal? We’ll see, but thus far, I’m a little dubious about the logic behind George’s impending decision.
Speaking of decisions, it’s becoming oddly apparent how many people are operating under the assumption LeBron will finish this summer as a member of the Lakers. I briefly touch on that, but expand on what that might mean for Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram and other members of the young core.
Yes, it probably makes more sense to acquire players better-equipped to help LeBron right away, but do the Lakers have a higher ceiling if they wait to find out what Ball, Ingram, Kyle Kuzma and others might be capable of? Do they have enough time to do so?
Other topics (because you guys get me) feature food, both in Staples Center and out. The Lakers need to pick up their game here.
Listen to the full discussion below and as always, please check out old episodes or guarantee you won’t miss any ever again by subscribing on iTunes.