Lakers Rumors Roundup: Kyrie Irving likely to join this summer, update on Lonzo Ball's future and more 

Kyrie Irving continues to be linked with the Lakers
Kyrie Irving continues to be linked with the Lakers

During the 2018 offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers looked to have put themselves in a position to compete. The franchise had welcomed the NBA's biggest star, and rumors swirled that the addition of a second All-Star was imminent.

However, the Lakers failed to add either Paul George, Anthony Davis, or Kawhi Leonard, and despite the presence of James, they missed out on the postseason for a sixth consecutive year.

In the aftermath of another disappointing season, Luke Walton has exited as head coach, and Magic Johnson has stepped down from his role as president of operations. This leaves the franchise facing a busy summer, and here are all the latest rumors you need to know.


#3 Kyrie Irving is seriously considering joining the Lakers this summer

Irving suffered a disappointing early playoff exit with the Celtics
Irving suffered a disappointing early playoff exit with the Celtics

Following Boston's 4-1 series defeat to Milwaukee, it appears that Kyrie Irving has played his final game for the Celtics. The 27-year-old has refused to commit his future to the team, and recent reports have also claimed that the Celtics have grown tired of his negative comments about the current roster.

Irving has been heavily linked with a move to New York with the Nets or Knicks, although Brain Windhorst recently told ESPN radio that Irving is seriously considering linking up with LeBron in LA:

'I would’ve said that this is impossible for many months. But as time passes here and as the possibility exists that Jason Kidd could be hired as the Lakers coach, I think the possibility of Kyrie and LeBron reuniting, that door, which was deadbolted, has been un-deadbolted and has now been cracked open. It might even be opening more by the day. And I say that just because I think it’s on Kyrie’s radar, it’s on Kyrie’s board. He has had discussions with people about playing for the Lakers'

Irving and LeBron teamed up for three seasons in Cleveland, and the All-Star duo guided the Cavs to a first NBA title back in 2016.

#2 The Lakers are still planning for a future with Lonzo Ball?

Lonzo Ball has been linked with a move to the Chicago Bulls
Lonzo Ball has been linked with a move to the Chicago Bulls

ESPN is reporting that Frank Vogel has signed a three-year deal to become the Lakers' new head coach, with Jason Kidd also joining as a prominent assistant coach. The decision to bring in Kidd was reportedly made with LeBron James in mind, although Brian Windhorst believes that Lonzo Ball will also benefit from working under the former All-Star:

The Lakers are enthusiastic about the prospect of Kidd working with point guard Lonzo Ball on a full-time basis.

Upon being drafted with the number two pick of the 2017 draft, Magic Johnson labeled Ball as the future of the franchise -- although Johnson left the team earlier this summer. Johnson's departure led to rumors that Ball would be traded, but Windhorst's report hints that the Lakers still have long-term plans for the 21-year-old.

#1 Anthony Davis still wants to be traded this summer

Anthony Davis has spent his entire career with the New Orleans Pelicans
Anthony Davis has spent his entire career with the New Orleans Pelicans

The New Orleans Pelicans have recently reshaped their front office, although according to WDSU New Orleans reporter Fletcher Mackel, the addition of David Griffin won't be enough to convince Anthony Davis to stay this summer:

Arrival of new VP (vice president) David Griffin has not changed Anthony Davis’ stance. Davis still wants trade away from NOLA. While Griffin & AD’s agent Rich Paul have good relationship, don’t except change of heart.

Griffin has prior experience working with Rich Paul (Davis' agent), although Davis seems determined to leave the franchise that he has been with since 2012. This opens the door for the Lakers to make a second move for the 26-year-old, although the Boston Celtics are still believed to be willing to offer a trade package that includes either Jaylen Brown or Jayson Tatum.

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Edited by Israel Lutete