The Los Angeles Lakers could make their move to acquire former All-Star point guard Deron Williams, after learning that the Dallas Mavericks completed the trade for Boston Celtics playmaker Rajon Rondo, a source close to situation reported on Thursday.
The Lakers has once again struck out in their pursuit to add high-caliber talent alongside Kobe Bryant. The latest was their failed attempt to bring in Rondo, who will now become the latest addition to the Mavs' high-octane starting five of Dirk Nowitzki, Tyson Chandler, Monta Ellis and Chandler Parsons.
According to Ramona Shelbourne of ESPN Los Angeles, Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchack indeed attempted to trade for Rondo, only his offer (reportedly Steve Nash's expiring contract worth $9M, Jordan Hill and multiple draft picks) was rejected by the Celtics front-office.
Rondo, who is averaging at least 8 points, 10 assists and 7 rebounds per game this season, had considered the Lakers as a potential free-agency destination next summer, though it's now unlikely to see him in purple-and-gold uniform following reports that he's interested to re-sign with the Mavs after the end of the season.
With another prospect point guard going to another team, the Lakers front office is in the race against time to improve their roster and make it attractive for potential free-agents next season.
Chat Sports NBA analyst Brian Rauf thinks the Lakers' next move could be trading for Williams, who has been made available by the Brooklyn Nets two weeks ago.
The 30-year old Williams hasn't been living up to his hefty contract, as injuries and coaching changes in the Nets organization over the past three years have apparently sucked the life out of the former perennial All-Star.
But in spite his recent struggle, the Lakers management could take a look at Williams, who is still producing decent numbers with 16.2 points, 6.9 assists and 3.2 rebounds per game.
"Williams is the backup option if the Lakers strikeout on Rondo. Brooklyn is in the process of overhauling their high-priced roster, and are looking to trade Williams (among others) for younger, cheaper players," Rauf stated.
"He's a former All-Star, but he's dealt with a variety of injuries that have severely hampered his play. Williams has looked more like this old self this year since he's healthy, and would be a definite upgrade to the Lakers' roster. Again, Los Angeles will likely have to give up a draft pick or two to make this happen."
Although he's not the kind of playmaker the Lakers would build around after Bryant gone, the Lakers might still use him as valuable trade bait in the future.
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