Lakers Rumors: Latest Buzz Surrounding Los Angeles’ Offseason Plans

The Los Angeles Lakers are still in the process of rebuilding, but this offseason represents the chance to make big steps back toward contention.

With Kobe Bryant retiring and Roy Hibbert coming off the books, the organization will have a lot more money to spend in free agency this offseason. In addition to money, the current young core makes things much more interesting for perspective free agents.

“In the last two years, we had nothing to sell,” vice president of basketball operations Jim Buss told Eric Pincus of Basketball Insiders. “Trust me, it’s a whole different feeling when you walk into one of those pitches and we have a lot [more on the roster and cap room to add additional talent].”

Buss also hinted he was over the rebuilding process by adding, “I think our young guys are the perfect number, and we will add solid veterans.”

On the surface, this means the team will target proven players on the free-agent market. Fortunately, there are a number of quality players available who could represent an instant upgrade to the roster.

Even discounting Magic Johnson’s plan of targeting Kevin Durant and inquiring about LeBron James, there are still good realistic options like DeMar DeRozan. The Toronto Raptors All-Star is reportedly interested in going to Los Angeles next season, according to ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith (via Ryan Ward of Lakers Nation).

There is also speculation about the Golden State Warriors’ Harrison Barnes following new head coach Luke Walton to the Lakers, per Diamond Leung of the Bay Area News Group. A handful of other impact players could decide to sign on for the history of the organization and the promise of better years ahead.

However, Buss’ comments could also tip his hand regarding the upcoming NBA draft. If he has the “perfect number” of young players, there might not be a need for any more, even with the Lakers having the second-best chance to get the No. 1 overall pick, per SB Nation’s Jesus Gomez.

Colin Cowherd of Fox Sports reported the team’s plan for the summer, according to his sources:

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