Real Madrid is trying to call dibs on Cedi Osman. The Turkish star of San Antonio Spurs looks like the last straw of hope for the European giants. Unlike their improving soccer counterparts in La Liga, the basketball team is on shaky ground. With some major faces leaving the team, could Osman become the torchbearer? Meanwhile, the Spanish squad might unexpectedly challenge Rob Pelinka‘s boys. The Lakers haven’t had the most glorious 2023-24 season. With a long list of injuries and just 47 wins, the team has brewed up some doubts. Will the iconic golden and purple squad become title contenders?

Meanwhile, their early exit from the 2024 Playoffs was one of the major blows. The only silver lining is the team reaching the 2022-23 Conference finals. Finances too, have been a concern for the team. However, the team’s core is strong and healthy, but an added push in terms of a player like Cedi Osman could elevate the game, bringing them back into the main picture. Cedi Osman, once a teammate of LeBron James at the Cleveland Cavaliers, is currently a free agent. After an interesting four years at the Spurs, the 29-year-old is looking for potential prospects. Here comes the Lakers angle. King James’ former teammate could fill the void in Rob Pelinka’s team.

The purple and gold are willing to recreate the Osman-James magic again: we could see the remake of the 2017-18 season. If Pelinka’s plans go accordingly, then Cedi would be a valuable addition to the team; verified by King James himself. A Bleacher Report article identifies Rob Pelinka & Co. as the top choice for the now-free agent Osman. “Remove the marquee names from that list, and you’re still looking at a couple of useful NBA players. Osman is worth a roster spot for rotations in need of shot-making from the wing positions. Enter the Los Angeles Lakers.” It’s an interesting consideration, especially since the low-risk, minimum contract cost is upfront.

The Lakers would invest in someone accustomed to LeBron James’ high standards. Rob Pelinka’s boys could benefit from the in-game success they hope to achieve. The Turkish star boasts a career average of 14.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.4 three-point field goals per 36 minutes. No wonder, Real Madrid is eyeing Cedi Osman wholeheartedly. But will it be a tough battle between the American and European giants? Well, it is most likely!

Why does Real Madrid want Rob Pelinka’s top choice of the season?

Real Madrid has more than one reason to knock on Cedi Osman’s door. After bidding their farewells to Chacho Rodriguez and Rudy Fernandez, Guershon Yabusele‘s “see you later” became a major reason for creased eyebrows. And it appears that the team wants to bring an NBA player to Spanish Liga ACB- more like a small exchange. Their first choice? Rob Pelinka’s top choice-  Osman. The former Cavaliers wingman with a great record with San Antonio Spurs, the 6’7″ Turkish star is on the radar of both the teams.

Well, the battle on either shore of the Atlantic is quite intriguing, to be honest. On one side, we have LeBron James at the Lakers, who is the former teammate of Cedi, and on the other side, there is the Spanish giant with incredible achievements. However, the Spurs star isn’t the only one Real Madrid is considering. They are also looking out for Valencia’s Semi Ojeleye. But, Cedi Osman remains the primary candidate. The need for the player in either team and the gap he will be filling, speaks volumes of his potential in the sport. Osman is a proven talent and, hence one of the most valuable assets of the season so far.

Maybe LeBron James could do some teeny tiny conversation tricks to lure the 29-year-old to the Lakers. Meanwhile, Real Madrid won’t be backing out for sure. They are on a quest to improve and reclaim their throne in Europe.