Los Angeles Lakers Rumors: Lakers handed major Kyrie Irving boost, Bradley Beal an option and more

Despite the presence of LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers endured an underwhelming 18/19 season - missing out on the playoffs for a sixth consecutive year. In the aftermath, Luke Walton has exited as head coach, while Magic Johnson has also stepped down from his role as president of operations.

At 34, LeBron James' window to win is closing, and the Lakers are desperate to add a second All-Star to partner with their superstar this summer. Due to this, the Lakers are facing a busy offseason, and here are all the latest rumors you need to know.

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Bradley Beal is a trade target

Bradley Beal was the Washington Wizards' standout performer of the 18/19 season

Bradley Beal enjoyed the best season of his career during the 18/19 campaign, although the Washington Wizards were unable to challenge for a playoff spot. Washington also faces a difficult 19/20 season with John Wall expected to miss the entire campaign, and with a rebuild seemingly on the horizon, some have suggested that Beal could be traded.

At this point, the Wizards have not made a final decision on Beal's future, although Sean Deveney of Sporting News is reporting that the Lakers hold serious interest in the 26-year-old:

The Lakers have other players they're targeting in trades, according to league sources. Chief among them is Wizards guard Bradley Beal, though with the Wizards not yet hiring a front office honcho, no decision has been made whether to trade Beal. But LA will be in position to make an attractive offer if Beal is put on the block.

Beal has been named as an All-Star in back-to-back seasons, and during the 18/19 campaign, he averaged career highs in points (25.6), rebounds (5.0), and assists (5.5).

Kyrie Irving is 'open' to signing with the Lakers

Kyrie Irving is expected to leave the Boston Celtics this summer

The Lakers are keen to reunite LeBron James and Kyrie Irving this summer, although both the Knicks and Nets have been touted as more likely destinations for Irving. However, according to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, Irving will at least consider a summer move to Los Angeles:

If you had asked me six months ago, I’d had said the door was closed and locked — that was not gonna happen. But over the last few months, there is no doubt there’s been a thawing between Kyrie and LeBron and Kyrie has become to be more open to joining the Lakers and has done some research on the organization.

I think the Lakers are lower on his list. But they’re on his list, and that gives them a fighting chance. Boston has got to still be worried about the Lakers in the Kyrie pursuit.

During the 18/19 season, Irving averaged 23.8 points, 6.9 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game. He previously played alongside James in Cleveland, and the duo helped the Cavs to win their first title in 2016.

Kyle Lowry could be an option at point guard

Kyle Lowry has impressed during the Raptors' trip to the Eastern Conference Finals

Lonzo Ball enjoyed a promising season with the Lakers, although the franchise is believed to be targeting an All-Star guard this summer. As touched upon, Irving is LA's number one target, although Sporting News is reporting that Kyle Lowry could be a backup option:

There's also interest in point guard Kyle Lowry, who could be available if the Raptors lose Kawhi Leonard in free agency. Because of Lowry's age (33) and contract ($33 million for next season), the Lakers could bring him in for a relatively limited outgoing package.

Lowry turned 33 earlier this year but remains a regular All-Star. Lowry has impressed for the Raptors during their Eastern Conference Finals series against the Bucks and the veteran is about to enter the final season of his three-year $100 million contract.