LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers are coming off a second-round playoff exit. The team’s front office is expected to make some offseason moves to bolster the roster. The superstar forward is reportedly in active negotiations to return to the franchise for his 24th NBA season. ESPN’s Marc J. Spears reported on Wednesday that with James likely to re-sign, the team could bring in Kevin Love.
The duo played alongside each other for the Cleveland Cavaliers for four seasons and won a championship together.
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“I’m hearing that (James) likely coming back (to the Lakers),” Spears said. “I’m curious under this new Lakers regime, you know, what the number is though. … And I’m also hearing that his old teammates with Cleveland, Kevin Love, could likely be joining the Lakers too.”
Love is an unrestricted free agent after spending last season with the Utah Jazz. He could sign for the minimum, giving Los Angeles a veteran with championship experience who won’t hurt its salary cap.
LeBron James and Kevin Love’s run with the Cavaliers
James and Love formed one of the best trios in NBA history along with Kyrie Irving. They led Cleveland to three straight Finals appearances and ended the franchise’s 46-year title drought.
Love starred for the Minnesota Timberwolves in his first six seasons in the league. He took a back seat with the Cavaliers and was mostly their third option on offense. The five-time All-Star proved that he can thrive in his role by producing consistent numbers.
Meanwhile, James earned four All-Star nods, four All-NBA first-team selections and won Finals MVP during his second tenure with his hometown team. He and Love built strong chemistry on and off the court, which would be key to the Lakers’ championship aspirations.
