Tensions are rising in Los Angeles as LeBron James’ future with the Lakers remains uncertain. The sudden availability of Damian Lillard, a nine-time All-Star point guard recently waived by Milwaukee, presents a rare opportunity for the Lakers to rejuvenate their championship aspirations while potentially securing LeBron’s loyalty for the near future. This move could dramatically shift the franchise’s trajectory as they seek a new winning formula.
The Potential Impact of Damian Lillard on the Lakers’ Offense
Matt Geist of Bleacher Report highlighted the transformative effect Lillard could have on the Lakers during his podcast. Geist pointed out that adding Lillard to the roster would likely create one of the most electrifying offenses in the NBA.
The Los Angeles Lakers would probably have the most exciting offense in the league if they added Damian Lillard,
Geist said.
Pairing Lillard with emerging star Luka Dončić, alongside LeBron James and center Deandre Ayton, sketches out an offensive lineup with unmatched scoring and playmaking potential. Financially, the Lakers appear well-positioned to absorb the cost of acquiring Lillard. Geist emphasized this point:
They definitely have the financial flexibility to get this deal done. They basically absorb Jake LaRavia and Deandre Ayton into that Dorian Finney-Smith money,
he explained.
By utilizing salary cap space freed up after Dorian Finney-Smith’s departure, Los Angeles can manage the contracts of LaRavia and Ayton to create room for Lillard’s salary. This strategic approach addresses more than just financial details; it tackles multiple challenges the Lakers face, including strengthening their backcourt depth and addressing LeBron’s uncertain future. Geist remarked on the organization‘s messaging to James:
So if you can get Damian Lillard, who’s by far the best offensive player left available in free agency, you go out and you do it and you’re proving to LeBron, ‘Hey, we’re still all in trying to get you a ring before you retire.’
Why Returning to California Could Appeal to Damian Lillard
Another compelling factor in this potential move is Lillard’s personal connection to California, where he was raised. Although he played college basketball at Weber State outside Los Angeles, the chance to return home may hold considerable emotional significance for him. Geist observed:
We’ll see if Dame wants to go back to the state of California, where he grew up,
he said.
He can go over here to the biggest market in the NBA, and he’d have some elite offensive co-stars with him right now.
These co-stars include not only LeBron James but also Dončić and Austin Reaves, a creative scorer who has impressed recently. Geist detailed the appeal of this group:
He’d get to play with Luka Dončić, whom they just acquired last year at the deadline. He’d get to play with Austin Reaves, a very good, creative scorer…you can have LeBron out there as well, and their new center Deandre Ayton,
Geist explained.
The combination of high-level talent, a massive media market, and the comfort of home could create a nurturing environment for Lillard, especially as he works through recovery from a significant injury. The infrastructure and experience of the Lakers organization might be crucial in supporting his path back to full health.
Challenges Around the Timing of Lillard’s Return and LeBron’s Career
Despite the enticing prospects, some risks remain, primarily centering on the timing of Lillard’s comeback from his Achilles injury. There is uncertainty about whether he can contribute at any point in the 2025-26 season. Meanwhile, LeBron James is engaged in the final year of his contract, with his next steps yet to be decided.
Geist expressed concerns about how their timelines might align:
Now, I’m not sure how much they would overlap entirely because it’s still up in the air when Damian Lillard can come back this year. Can he come back down for a playoff stretch in April? Would he be available in May? But then, do you want to even rush him back in the playoffs with no ramp-up whatsoever?
This uncertainty suggests the most realistic scenario involves a delayed peak for this partnership. Geist considered the possibility that Lillard’s full return might better align with the following season:
So maybe this would be more so in 2026-27 with him and Luka running the show, which would be a lot of fun,
he remarked.
In that scenario, a healthy Lillard could pair with Dončić at the core of the team’s offense, even if LeBron departs or retires after this coming season.
Lillard’s Value as a Strategic Acquisition Despite Injury Concerns
With Milwaukee waiving Lillard, the nine-time All-Star now emerges as an exceptional value in the market, especially for a team with championship ambitions like the Lakers. For Los Angeles, acquiring Lillard could represent a high-reward opportunity at a reduced cost, balancing risks related to his health with the potential for a dominant offense.
Moreover, demonstrating a willingness to invest in top-tier talent may influence LeBron James’ own deliberations about remaining with the franchise. Showing commitment to winning through moves like pursuing Lillard could motivate LeBron to stay and chase another title.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who unfollowed LeBron James?
A. Rest was LeBron’s top method to help his body heal completely, enabling him to consistently perform at his best. He mentioned getting 8 to 9 hours of sleep each night. When he doesn’t reach this amount, he takes naps lasting up to 2.5 hours in the afternoon.
Q. Why did Drake unfollow LeBron James?
A. It seems they were correct. James might have upset Drake by going to Kendrick Lamar’s “Pop Out” show in June. At that moment, Drake and Lamar’s ongoing conflict was intense, with both artists releasing competitive diss tracks.