5 potential third-star targets for Lakers during offseason ft. Donovan Mitchell

Despite assembling what could be considered the strongest team, the Lakers have faced difficulties on both offense and defense. They currently hold the 9th spot in the Western Conference and have a narrow lead of only 2.5 games over the 9th-seeded Houston Rockets.

Despite their ongoing difficulties, it is evident that LeBron James and Anthony Davis are unable to single-handedly carry this team. A second superstar-level player is necessary to contend with the increasing competition in the league.

According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic, the Lakers are actively seeking a third-star player for their upcoming season. Keeping this in mind, here are five potential candidates that the Lakers could consider for the third-star position.

Possible Offseason Targets for Lakers to Add Third Star Talent

The Rise of Trae Young

Despite spending over six seasons with the Atlanta Hawks, Trae Young has frequently been included in trade discussions involving the Lakers. Despite his long-standing presence in Atlanta, the team has struggled to achieve notable success with Young as their star guard.

Despite the fact that LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Trae Young are all represented by Klutch Sports, it is uncertain if Young would be willing to join the Lakers. Nonetheless, this factor could potentially make it easier for the Lakers to pursue him.

Although Young is the highest-rated player in Atlanta and has a max contract worth $215 million, it is uncertain if the Lakers could realistically afford his salary while also paying Davis and LeBron.

#2 The Rise of Donovan Mitchell

After his contract expires in 2025, Donovan Mitchell has not made a commitment to sign with the Cavaliers. As a result, numerous teams, including the Brooklyn Nets and the New York Knicks, have expressed interest. The Lakers have also joined the pursuit for Mitchell.

Although Mitchell hails from New York, it is in Los Angeles where the true dominance lies. With LeBron James nearing retirement, the opportunity for Mitchell to join the Lakers and reach superstar status alongside Davis is immense.

Mitchell’s eligibility for a $200 million extension next season will heavily rely on LA’s willingness to offer valuable assets in exchange for acquiring the star players.

#3 Brooklyn Nets: Kyrie Irving

The partnership between Kyrie Irving and LeBron James was a major focal point of the trade during the past two seasons. Prior to his signing with the Mavs in the previous season, there was mounting speculation that Irving would join forces with James and Davis in Los Angeles.

The Mavs’ success this season will ultimately determine whether Irving chooses to remain with them. After a disappointing season last year, they have found themselves in the playoff race this year. While their current standing is encouraging, it remains unclear how far they will advance in the playoffs. If the Mavericks are eliminated in the first round, the Lakers may want to consider pursuing Irving.

LeBron James and Irving have a successful track record as teammates in Cleveland. They may consider reuniting for a potential championship run in the upcoming season.

#4: Dejounte Murray’s Rise to Stardom

The trade for Dejounte Murray was nearly finalized before the February deadline. Murray is currently in the final year of his contract and previously became a free agent in the previous season.

The Lakers see Murray as an ideal target due to his strong ties to LeBron James. Murray and James share the same agent, making it easier for Rich Paul to negotiate a lucrative contract with the Lakers for Murray.

Despite not being as high-profile as Mitchell or Irving, Murray’s presence on the court could greatly benefit them by providing easy scoring opportunities. Since Trae Young’s injury, Murray has been on a hot streak and has been crucial in the Hawks’ recent success. In their last five games, the Hawks have won four consecutive games before ultimately falling to the Milwaukee Bucks. During this stretch, Murray has been averaging an impressive 30.0 points, 10.2 assists, and 6.2 rebounds per game.

Despite Murray’s undeniable potential as a valuable addition to the Lakers, it appears that they will face competition in securing his services.

#5 DeMar DeRozan: A Star Player for the San Antonio Spurs

There have been rumors linking DeMar DeRozan to the Lakers before the trade deadline on Feb 8. Since DeRozan’s contract will expire after this season, the Lakers are seen as one of the top contenders for his services.

DeRozan, who is currently at the end of his prime in the NBA, will turn 35 next year. One of his main aspirations is to win a championship before retiring. Teaming up with LeBron James and Anthony Davis would be a logical move for DeRozan. Additionally, when James takes a more supportive role, DeRozan will have a chance to showcase his skills with the Bulls.

Being from California, DeRozan’s desire to play for the Lakers is well-known. It would not come as a shock if he decides to join the team over others in the upcoming season.