Two more superstars next summer. . .
Over the weekend, it was revealed that Luol Deng had agreed to an official $38 million buyout for the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019. Upon the deal, he’s expected to give back $7.5 million out of his buyout, which will clear up a third max-deal slot for the team next summer.
The payout is expected to stretch over a few years, as they’ll be able to pay him out without affecting their salary. Before we can continue on, we’re just blown away at a player getting a nearly $40 million buyout, which has never happened before in any sport. This is one of the most bizarre things we’ve ever seen, and has been greenlighted by Adam Silver – bestie of LeBron James.
With that being said, LA is expected to target two superstars next summer ($38 million in extra cap), which one we’re believing to be Klay Thompson. While it’s most likely that Kawhi Leonard will agree to stay put in the six for his super-max deal with the Toronto Raptors, the Lakers are going to break every rule likely look elsewhere for a second superstar to pair up with LBJ.
In our opinion, the team would be better off finding multiple role players to build a bench and surround James. However, it’s possible they could gut out their young core (see: Brandon Ingram, Kyle Kuzma) in February at the trade deadline for stars. Let us know in the comments which stars you think will be wearing purple and gold next summer – or if they should get quality role pieces.
