Rajon Rondo will be the target of almost every NBA team as the trade deadline grows closer and then again in free agency. The point guard is playing on an expiring deal on a team that is struggling to make an impact in the Eastern Conference. Both the Boston Celtics and Rondo have been coy on their future together as many believe the point guard is available at the right price at the deadline. After a "breakfast" with Kobe Bryant, are the Los Angeles Lakers preparing to make a move for Rondo sooner rather than later?
There was an instance during the offseason where Kevin Love took a trip to Boston and was seen hanging out with Rondo. Speculation began to rise that the forward was targeting Boston as his free agency destination. The result ended up being a trade to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Now, Rondo is experiencing the same kind of treatment after he was spotting getting breakfast with Bryant in Boston.
According to ESPN, both Bryant and Rondo met in Boston so queue up the rumors because this is the NBA and players cannot simply just enjoy breakfast with one another, right? Ramona Shelburne reports that there has been no indications that the Celtics and Lakers are negotiating any kinds of trades right now, although the two teams briefly discussed a deal earlier in the offseason. It is not clear if it was in regards to Rondo or not.
The Lakers are interested in acquiring Rondo and have been for some time, they just simply lack the assets right now to acquire him. The Lakers have him at the top of their list in free agency baring any last minute trade of the point guard. There is a slim chance the Lakers could get a trade done at the deadline. Shelburne reports that the Lakers owe their first-round draft pick to the Phoenix Suns or Houston Rockets depending on where it falls. They could try and include that along with a player like Steve Nash who has an expiring contract and would free up space for Boston. If Rondo is available, the Celtics will want that draft pick.
Bryant has been a big advocate for Rondo. In 2013, the veteran told ESPN that he believes the point guard is one of the best in the league and top all-around player.
"You don't want Rondo? Send him my way," Bryant said. "I love everything about him. Everything. I love his attitude, I love his chippiness, his edge, his intellect, his know-it-allness. All of it. That's what makes championship players. What guard have you seen at his size that will get you 18 assists, 17 boards and 20 points all in one game? That's unheard of. I love that kid. I always make a point of talking to him during All-Star [Weekend]. He's one of my favorites."
With Jeremy Lin and Nash out at the end of the season, Rondo will be a priority. If they cannot sign him, the Lakers could target someone like Deron Williams or Goran Dragic in free agency.