One of the most prominent additions to the Los Angeles Lakers in this year's offseason is Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. The guard, who came from the Detroit Pistons, signed with the Lakers back in July. His deal is for one year and is going to earn him $18 million. To many, this is a favorable move for the purple and gold franchise. A short-term contract provides the Lakers several options once the 2017-18 NBA season is over. They can either keep him (extension) or let him go to have the cap space to pursue big names in free agency. On the other hand, while he is still on the team, he will provide leadership and experience.
The 24-year-old also gives Los Angeles a starting shooting guard.
In a recent report by ESPN's Dave McMenamin, he mentioned another reason why signing Caldwell-Pope could be an excellent move for the Lakers. According to him, "multiple league sources suggested," that the "major motivating factor" why the Lakers inked Caldwell-Pope is because of Rich Paul, his agent. Paul is also handling LeBron James, who is rumored to be a target for Los Angeles in 2018.
Quality player
The Lakers may have acquired Caldwell-Pope to improve their chances of landing James next year, but they are also getting a decent player in him. As mentioned, he is expected to be their starter at the No. 2 position and can be a veteran leader on the roster.
In four seasons in the NBA (all with the Pistons), the former first-round pick has career-averages of 11.7 points, three rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.2 steals per contest. These numbers show that he is a quality guy on both ends of the floor.
LeBron to Wade
If the Lakers fail in their chase of James, another potential option for them is Dwyane Wade.
In a report by the Miami Herald, an "associate" of Wade is saying that if the Chicago Bulls grant his request for a contract buyout, "appealing destinations" for him are Miami and Los Angeles. It is not surprising to see the Heat in the conversation, though it is for the Lakers. It is rare for them to get linked to the 35-year-old veteran.
Similar to the Caldwell-Pope signing, Wade to Los Angeles may boost the Lakers' chances of welcoming James.
Wade and James are close friends. As teammates, they have won two NBA championships during their time in South Beach. If they reunite in Los Angeles, they have the opportunity to try and repeat what they accomplished in Miami. However, this time, they will have a younger supporting cast led by Brandon Ingram and Lonzo Ball.
