At the NBA Draft on Thursday, the Los Angeles Lakers surprised some by selecting D’Angelo Russell over Jahlil Okafor. With their other picks being Larry Nance Jr. and Anthony Brown, general manager Mitch Kupchak will be pursuing frontcourt players in free agency.
— Have you seen the ‘Lakers Nation’ phone case? —
One of the upcoming free agents the Lakers have been linked to the past two seasons has been Kevin Love. While Love recently opted out of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, he has indicated to them he will re-sign according to Sam Amico of Fox Sports:
Kevin Love has indicated to Cavs recently he plans to return. Cavs also hope to execute Brendan Haywood contract trade quickly after July 1.
— Sam Amico (@AmicoHoops) June 28, 2015
While Love struggled and suffered a season-ending injury in the first round of the NBA Playoffs, the Cavaliers have already established themselves as contenders in the East for many seasons to come. Although many teams like the Lakers will still pursue Love, he has expressed his desire to remain in Cleveland with LeBron James and Kyrie Irving numerous times.
For the Lakers, there will be numerous frontcourt options available in free agency as they will have a projected $24 million in cap space. Los Angeles has reportedly moved up on LaMarcus Aldridge’s list and are planning to visit DeAndre Jordan at his Houston home.
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