The Los Angeles Lakers entered the offseason as one of the NBA’s most recognizable franchises, but several notable players ultimately chose opportunities elsewhere.
Despite having Luka Doncic and coming off another playoff appearance, Los Angeles failed to attract some of the biggest names available.
LeBron James left for Philadelphia, Jonathan Kuminga joined Minnesota, Klay Thompson signed with Miami and Bruce Brown later went to the Knicks.
Giannis Antetokounmpo also reportedly did not have the Lakers near the top of his preferred destinations before Milwaukee traded him.
Restricted free agent Peyton Watson went to Cleveland through a sign-and-trade, where he had the opportunity to earn more money.
Financial limitations contributed to the situation. Los Angeles committed four years and $180 million to Austin Reaves and acquired Walker Kessler on a four-year, $130 million deal that also cost the franchise significant future draft capital.
Still, some players reportedly accepted less money elsewhere.
James signed a two-year, $8 million contract with Philadelphia despite potentially earning considerably more with the Lakers, while Kuminga took a two-year, $12.4 million deal from Minnesota after Los Angeles had reportedly offered $20 million over two years.
Thompson’s decision was also notable because of his connections to Southern California and the Lakers.
He instead joined Miami on a two-year, $13 million contract, while Brown eventually accepted an Exhibit 9 deal with New York.
The Lakers already have a crowded roster, but the offseason raised questions about why Los Angeles did not generate the same level of interest from prominent players that it has historically.
The organization has also experienced significant change, including the transition from James to Doncic and ownership changes.
Whatever the reasons behind individual decisions, this offseason was noticeably different for a franchise that has traditionally been one of the NBA’s most attractive destinations.
