Lakers News: Cavs’ Hidden Agenda Could Crush Rob Pelinka’s Plans Amidst Relentless Donovan Mitchell Pursuit

The Los Angeles Lakers are desperately in the pursue of the third member of the Big-three this offseason to join LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The biggest All-Star candidate who can complete this trio is the Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell. Though there are other names on the list of potentials for the Lakers, the former is the best choice. However, getting him in the purple and gold jerseys won’t come easy, as the Cavaliers’ latest move could ruin all the attempts from the Lakers’ front office.

According to The Athletic insiders, one of the lead scorers in the NBA, Mitchell, did not “have great confidence in Bickerstaff.” With such chemistry between their star player and the coach, the Cavs front office is rumored to be looking for a new coach in place of JB Bickerstaff. Interestingly, the most hyped-up name for the position is JJ Redick, who also headlined the Lakers’ coach hunt. However, the speculations floating in the NBA community are yet to be addressed officially.

Donovan Mitchell has the option to either re-sign the Cavs or opt out in 2025. If he chooses to opt-out, he’ll become the free agent this year. It will be the most suitable chance for the Lakers to form their Big Three. However,  ESPN insider Adrian Wojnarowski confirmed on the show NBA Countdown that the guard is “happy in Cleveland.” Adrian mentioned it, recalling his conversation with the Cavaliers’ guard.

In such a case, the Lakers’ plan for acquiring the best will be ruined. With Donovan Mitchell’s rare availability, the only option the Lakers have got is to go through other possibilities.

If not Donovan Mitchell, Who will complete the Lakers’ Big-Three Trio?

The best way for the Lakers this offseason to create a balance in their squad is to use players like Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell to acquire the last All-Star player. Since Donovan Mitchell seems a tough nut to crack now, Zach LaVine is the most feasible option. The reason behind this is that he might be the most cost-effective for the team. Moreover, he could be a great spot-up shooter for the Lakers with 38% 3-point shooting. On the other hand, the Bulls need players like Russell and Reaves on their team.

If not LaVine, Trae Young is another go-to choice for LeBron and Co. due to his passing and scoring skills. His exceptional methods will aid Anthony Davis to lob ball on the court. Moreover, his compatibility with James might also be great with his ball-handling and playmaking. Yet there are chances that his stats will drop at the Lakers. He will be more of a playmaker than a scorer. This season, he has averaged 25.7 points and 10.8 assists per game.

With these options for completing their roster, the Lakers might also get Darius Garland. However, the Cavs point guard will be available if Mitchell signs the extension with Cavaliers. For now, the Cavs have played a bigger move than purple and gold jerseys to sustain Donovan Mitchell.