NBA Free Agency Rumors: ‘Increasing Number’ Of Insiders Believe Lakers ‘True Threat’ To Sign Kawhi Leonard Over Clippers

Dan Duangdao
3 Min Read
John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

With less than 48 hours before the start of free agency on June 30, the Los Angeles Lakers have made two significant moves in hopes of signing a third All-Star player now.

Highlighted by the Anthony Davis trade with the New Orleans Pelicans, the Lakers eventually re-established their max-contract slot following much controversy.

Since the Lakers-Wizards trade and Davis waiving his $4 million trade kicker, the narrative has begun to change — especially regarding Kawhi Leonard’s decision.

As it was viewed as a two-team race between the Toronto Raptors and Los Angeles Clippers, more insiders are starting to believe the Lakers are a ‘true threat’ to sign Leonard, according to Marc Stein of New York Times:

As a result, there is uncertainty for the Clippers now and what it may take for them to sign him, according to Stein:

Shortly after the Davis news, there was a report of Leonard granting the Lakers a meeting. Since then, Leonard’s camp is expected to meet with owner Jeanie Buss and former president of basketball operations Magic Johnson.

Along with Buss and Johnson, Davis and LeBron James are planning on meeting with Leonard about teaming up.

Despite a drama-filled start to the offseason, it appears it will not have a negative impact on free agency. As the Lakers have reached their goal of two All-Star players, the opportunity to perhaps sign a third is an incredible one.

As all of the attention is on Leonard and rightfully so, Kyrie Irving reportedly remains in the discussion despite him being linked to the Brooklyn Nets. If Kevin Durant does not join Irving, it could open the door for him to reunite with James and fulfill his desire to play with Davis as well.

Regardless of what happens, Leonard’s decision will change the landscape of the NBA for the first time in five seasons.

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Dan Duangdao was the managing editor at Lakers Nation (2013-16, 2018-20). He is currently the founder at LA Sports Media, Lake Show, Raiders Nation, Rams Nation, Kings Nation, Galaxy Nation, and MMA Rumors. Born and raised in Southern California and a lifelong Los Angeles sports and mixed martial arts fan, his first NBA game was Kobe Bryant and the Lakers against the Golden State Warriors with Michael Jordan in attendance during the 1998-99 NBA season. He was previously a contributor at HOOPSWORLD (now Basketball Insiders) and an NBA editor at ClutchPoints. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: @DanDuangdao.