Lakers predicted to sign $81M defensive pest, 2-time Finals champion with major LeBron James ties

The Los Angeles Lakers are excited about their future now that Luka Dončić has become the face of the franchise. The Lakers also appear to have found the right leader in head coach JJ Redick. For Dončić, who reached the NBA Finals just a few years ago, the goal is to return to that stage as soon as possible.

“Dončić being just 26 gives the Lakers a far longer timeline to build a championship-contending team, but that doesn't mean they can slow down and take their time. Dončić told Lakers president Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick in May that he's not interested in taking the slow approach in building a contender,” CBS Sports’ Jasmyn Wimbish wrote.

Los Angeles is also expected to prioritize keeping Austin Reaves this summer, especially with significant cap space available. Reaves could receive a major offer from the Lakers.

“The Los Angeles Lakers plan to offer Austin Reaves a five-year, $240 million contract this offseason once unrestricted free agency begins, sources told Lakers Daily,” Ashish Mathur of Lakers Daily wrote. “The Lakers have ‘no fear’ of losing the talented undrafted guard, who wants to spend his entire career with the Purple and Gold.”

Another potential move this offseason could be a reunion with defensive standout Alex Caruso.

“The purple and gold are locked in on winning down the stretch, and will be for years to come. Luka Doncic is just entering his prime. Austin Reaves is on the same timeline. Those are the Lakers' building blocks. It is about finding the right pieces to maximize their shot at winning it all. Caruso is the perfect fit. The two-time NBA champion has injury concerns, but his on-court production is elite. He is one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA and flat-out helps his team win. The Lakers certainly need stoppers next to Luka and AR. This could be a match made in heaven if everything breaks right this offseason,” Lake Show Life’s Tyler Watts wrote.

The Lakers are currently winning with the roster they have, which gives them flexibility to target the players they want in the offseason. Caruso would bring energy and defensive intensity, an area Los Angeles has been steadily improving.

For now, the Lakers will see how far they can go this season. However, much of the excitement is already building for next year. Lakers fans have wanted Caruso back since his departure, and a reunion would only add more excitement in Los Angeles.