LeBron James has been a joyful and emotional man over the last few days. He finally saw his elder son, Bronny James enter the NBA, let alone be on the same team as him after getting news of his cardiac arrest months ago. The atonement led to a fresh perspective for the King. His rush for a title now grew even more now that he had the chance to win with his son. To ensure that happens, a competent roster has to be fit into place.

According to Adrian Wojnarowski, James is willing to take a hefty pay cut if that gives the Lakers access to the mid-level exemption. With that $13 million, the franchise is hopeful to lure a difference-maker to the City of Angels. This significant move by LeBron, to sacrifice a part of his salary, underscores his commitment to winning another NBA championship, potentially with his son alongside him.

“Now LeBron and Rich Paul met with the Lakers on this topic last week, and they agreed from what I am told on a short list of players that LeBron would feel good about taking less money to get on the Lakers. And obviously, one of them was Klay Thompson…. I think there’s more than three. I think DeMar DeRozan is on that list as well, and there may be another one or so,” Brian Windohorst broke the news on the Hoop Collective podcast.

The Lakers’ targeted approach to building a competent roster includes not only homegrown talent like Bronny but also seasoned players like Klay Thompson and possibly DeMar DeRozan. DeRozan, who is now an unrestricted free agent, could see a return to his hometown as a strategic move by the Lakers to bolster their lineup, further intensifying the city rivalry with the Clippers, who also have eyes on DeRozan.

Before losing Paul George, the Clippers were said to be viewing DeRozan as the possible replacement to maintain their status as contenders for next season. After playing in the final year of his $82 million extension, DeMar DeRozan now stands as an unrestricted free agent. He would get the chance to follow in his idol, Kobe Bryant’s enchanting footsteps.

Lakers and Clippers’ Battle for LA Supremacy

As the Lakers and Clippers vie for control of Los Angeles, the recruitment of players like DeRozan and Thompson could define the next era of basketball in the city. DeRozan’s potential move is not just a strategic acquisition for the Lakers but a sentimental one, strengthening the Lakers’ narrative and appeal.

Growing up in Compton, DeRozan was a Lakers fan throughout. From his time in college, he donned Kobe’s on his feet and has hooped in them ever since. Vanessa Bryant even named Deebo the face of his Kobe Bryant brand when they renegotiated terms with Nike. This connection with the Lakers’ legacy adds a layer of depth to the possible signing.

DeRozan’s decision will likely resonate with fans on a deeper level, tying together personal aspirations with professional achievements. His move could either elevate the Lakers’ championship hopes or leave them in a stronger position to challenge the dominance of the Clippers in LA.

Do you think it’s time for DeMar DeRozan to finally follow in his idol’s shoes, or is Klay Thompson the better option? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what brand maker, Leonard Armato, had to say about the deadly duo, Shaq and Kobe, check out this video