
The Lakers look like they’re standing pat.
They’ve made their summer moves — adding Jake LaRavia, Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart — and for now, that might be it. Luka Doncic recruited Ayton and Smart, Austin Reaves brought in LaRavia, per DallasHoopsJournal. The only notable subtraction was Dorian Finney-Smith heading to the Rockets.
“I don’t think another move is coming for the Lakers before the season starts, and really, it’s just a simple cost-benefit analysis of making one,” Dan Woike of The Athletic wrote. “The Lakers have two tradable draft picks as of now, one first, one second and some low-value swaps because, well, any team with Dončić on it has a pretty high floor.
“To create a roster spot to sign a remaining free agent, you’re spending at least one second and losing a veteran who you believe to some degree can help (or who can make as big of a difference compared to whatever player is still uncommitted here in August).
“As far as trades go, while talks could pick back up as training camp gets closer, I believe it’s way more likely that the Lakers would rather look at the roster that they’ve built, assess the strengths and weaknesses and try to improve during the season than use any of their limited draft arsenal to get a deal done now.”
Of course, training camp can spark new conversations. For now, second-year coach JJ Redick is expected to open with Doncic, Reaves, Rui Hachimura, LeBron James and Ayton.
Last season ended with a first-round exit to Minnesota in five games, despite home-court advantage.
The Lakers know they have the star power to contend — it’s just a question of whether they have the balance to survive the West’s gauntlet once the games count.
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