Patrick Beverley Says He Would Want To Play For Lakers If He Wasn’t With Timberwolves
Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Lakers have quite a few things to figure out as they head into another offseason full of pivotal decisions that could shape the franchise for the foreseeable future.

The Lakers first need to make a decision on a head coach and they are in the thick of the process as they have interviewed several candidates for the job. So far, it seems Darvin Ham and Terry Stotts are the early favorites, though that could change if coaches like Quin Snyder and Doc Rivers suddenly become available.

After naming a new head coach and getting through the upcoming 2022 NBA Draft, Los Angeles will need to turn to free agency to rebuild the roster around LeBron James. One player who sounds interested in playing with James is Minnesota Timberwolves guard Patrick Beverley.

In an appearance on ESPN’s “This Just In”, Beverley revealed he would come to the Lakers to play with James if he was a free agent:

“If I was a free agent and if me and Minnesota didn’t agree to a number, I wouldn’t even hesitate. Just to be able to play with a great like that, be able to pick his brain, be able to be a star in whatever role that I have. Playing aside Russell Westbrook…fantastic. Playing for the Lakers, couldn’t ask for a better job.”

However, Beverley acknowledged that the pressure of playing for the Purple and Gold is not for everyone:

“I think obviously L.A., but that’s pretty much it. It’s a lot of pressure playing for the Lakers and we’ve seen this with Russell Westbrook. Everything you do will be dissected to the tedious, to the smallest amount.”

It would be hard for any player to pass up an opportunity to team up with James, but the championship-or-bust expectations can make it difficult for someone to thrive in L.A. As Beverley noted, Westbrook experienced plenty of boos after his lackluster season contributed to them missing the playoffs.

Beverley’s revelation leaves optimism that players would still come to the Lakers despite the reported dysfunction across the organization. The Purple and Gold are starving for a bounce-back year, and this offseason will be a crucial one.

Phil Jackson could influence front office’s decision on Russell Westbrook

Westbrook is perhaps the most polarizing player in the league, and the Lakers will need to decide whether to keep him or part ways. Even at the time of the deal to acquire the guard, personnel seemed split on the decision.

However, it seems Westbrook has a supporter in Phil Jackson whose opinion could possibly sway the front office.

Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!

You May Also Like

Lakers News: Isaiah Thomas Vows To ‘Be Better’ After Missing Crucial Free Throw In Loss To Trail Blazers

The Los Angeles Lakers saw their season-best five-game winning streak and nine-game winning streak at home end…

Despite Loss To Pistons, Luke Walton ‘Proud’ Of Lakers For Fighting Through Injuries And Fatigue On Road Trip

As the Los Angeles Lakers saw their road their last multi-game road trip of the season come to an end with a loss…

ESPN Summer Forecast: Lakers Receive 4th-Most Points For 2018-19 NBA Western Conference Champions

The Los Angeles Lakers received 13 points to win the 2018-19 Western Conference Finals, according to the ESPN…

Exploring the Historic Rivalry Between the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers’ and Boston Celtics’ rivalry is a monumental saga…