Playing for the Los Angeles Lakers remains one of the most captivating feelings in all of the National Basketball Association, a main reason why the franchise has created such a rich history. Many players have worn the purple and gold jersey, embracing the lifestyle and spectacle of playing under the lights of Hollywood.
Although Los Angeles is in the midst of a rebuilding movement, there is a lot of optimism to go around. After acquiring All-Star center Brook Lopez and four picks in the 2017 NBA Draft, including guard Lonzo Ball, the Lakers look to take an encouraging step forward towards 2018 free agency.
The Lakers have been heavily linked to All-Star Paul George, who was recently traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Many believe that George can help bring the franchise back to stardom, as is the case with Lakers big man Thomas Robinson. After spending his first season with Los Angeles, Robinson fully understands what George could bring and how his status would elevate, via Alex Kennedy of Basketball Insiders:
I interviewed Thomas Robinson about his free agency. It'll post soon. During our conversation, he weighed in on Paul George to the Lakers: pic.twitter.com/nsn5bmI3VO
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) June 30, 2017
George, growing up near Los Angeles, has major ties towards the franchise, while idolizing Lakers legend Kobe Bryant growing up. The three-time All-NBA player is the crucial missing piece that many, including Robinson, believe will begin an avalanche of success for the organization.
Robinson, a five-year veteran, has already played for six franchises, but still experienced the outlier that is Los Angeles. The star status that comes with playing for the Lakers creates an unexplainable buzz around the city and Staples Center itself, different from other NBA environments. Many believe that George relishes the opportunity to play for the Lakers, with his brass heavily favoring the transition to Los Angeles.
Robinson, alongside the young core, have reaped the benefits of what an exciting atmosphere can provide, which coincided with their 10-10 start. Lakers fans always have been able to create an electricity in the building. If George could bring this franchise back to championship status, he would elevate himself into elite status in terms of franchise history.