Perhaps the biggest concern is getting Derek Fisher to sign back for less money or less years.
Next month, Fisher turns 36. And although he is great shape, he has declined a bit in regular season production. Which has the Lakers in a position to reserve him for the postseason, where he thrives.
Last week, the Lakers offered Fisher 1-year/$2.5Million dollar contract. He immediately rejected.
Derek is looking for a 2-year/$10Million dollar contract.
As we are sure that the two parties will come to terms with a more feasible deal, it is possible that other teams will attempt to nab him away from the 2010 champions. Sources say that Cleveland and Miami are among the teams interested in the clutch veteran.
This will be an intriguing off-season for the Lakers. With the draft picks Devin Ebanks & Doug Caracter looking like solid pieces to make the team. It is possible that Josh Powell & DJ Mbenga won’t be signed back. As they will be looking for more money than L.A.’s willing to offer.
But without Fisher, the road to a 3-Peat will be more enduring than initially expected.