Lakers free agency rumors: Los Angeles among teams interested in Kemba Walker
E.Jay Zarett
May 27, 2019 02:49 MYT
May 27, 2019 02:49 MYT
The Lakers continue to be linked to top-level free agents.
Los Angeles is among the teams interested in Kemba Walker, according to a report from Basketball Insiders. The Magic, Pacers and Knicks are all also expected to consider signing the guard, the report says.
The Hornets are also still hoping to bring back Walker, according to the report.
All things being equal -- Not sure there will be much of a market for DeMarcus... as for Kemba. I know the Magic, Pacers, Knicks, and Lakers have an interest... Charlotte still wants him and can now Supermax him. https://t.co/gi2sf4L3cw — Steve Kyler (@stevekylerNBA) May 25, 2019
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The 29-year-old averaged a career-high 25.6 points, along with, 5.9 assists, for Charlotte last season. He shot 43.4% from the field and 35.6% from 3-point range.
Charlotte originally drafted Walker out of UConn with the ninth pick in the 2011 draft. The three-time All-Star has spent his entire eight-year career with the franchise.
Walker became eligible for a “supermax” extension with the Hornets when he was named to the All-NBA third team last week.
??? RT to congratulate @KembaWalker for making the '18-19 All-NBA Third Team!#BuzzCity pic.twitter.com/MXt7VKjmi7 — Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) May 23, 2019
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The Lakers, meanwhile, are reportedly hoping to land another star this summer to pair with LeBron James, who signed a four-year, $153.3 million contract with the team last July.
"I think if people take a look at where this franchise is right now,” Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka told reporters earlier this month. “We have a high draft pick. We have a great young core, maybe one of the best in the league. We have a superstar on our team, and an open slot. So, I think people can look at this as an opportunity to win a championship possibly next year."
James has already begun attempting to recruit upcoming free agents to Los Angeles and he has been in “contact” with Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler, according to an earlier report from ESPN.
“From what I understand, [LeBron] has already begun the recruiting process. I’ve heard he has had contact with Kawhi Leonard. I’ve heard he’s had contact with Jimmy Butler.” —@WindhorstESPN reporting on @PTI pic.twitter.com/2ppJjjL60h — SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 24, 2019
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Kyrie Irving has reportedly become “more open” to joining Los Angeles, as well.