The Los Angeles Lakers would like to get Kobe Bryant another championship in the next two years before he likely calls it quits when his contract is up. The current roster certainly will not get that done and now that the team is at risk of losing long-time stars like Pau Gasol, they need to make a splash in free agency with the limited financial freedom that they have. Could a trade be the better option?
Of course the Lakers are getting linked to the Kevin Love sweepstakes. However, while the hold the hometown advantage, they lack the assets to make a proper deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves. They have the draft pick, but not much more unless they can convince the team to take on Steve Nash. However, while Love's price tag is high, Ricky Rubio's might not be which is something the Lakers are considering.
Rubio has noted that if Love leaves he might be ready to leave as well. He spoke with a Spanish site while working at a Euro basketball camp and said he only wants to play for a winning team. That will not be Minnesota if they lose Love. Moke Hamilton of Basketball Insiders notes that Rubio could be the better trade for Minnesota in the long run so they can stock up on draft picks to rebuild when Love leaves. The Lakers have the No. 7 pick to offer, but they must decide whether getting Rubio is better than drafting Julius Randle or Marcus Smart.
The Lakers have been looking for an upgrade at the point guard position. They have Nash who may or may not be able to play next season despite being under contract. They have been linked to trades involving both Deron Williams and Rajon Rondo, but it has yet to be confirmed whether or not they are even available at a price the Lakers can handle.
One free agent it appears the team will not be able to get is Chris Bosh. The center has already said that he fully intends on attempting to stay in South Beach for the long-term, but several teams are hoping he at least tests the market before hand. Los Angeles will need to replace Pau Gasol who looks like he is not considering re-signing. FOX Sports' reporter Sam Amico simply said "no" when asked if there was a shot the Lakers could get Bosh under contract.
The Lakers will prioritize the point guard position first since after issues with Nash held them back last season. A trade for Rubio could be a strong option if the team feels there will not be solid options at No. 7.
