Lakers Rumors: Kawhi Leonard, Kyrie Irving Could Be Top Targets, LeBron James Won't Be Traded

Kawhi Leonard Toronto Raptors — Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Toronto Raptors runs down the floor in the first half against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on January 13, 2019 in Washington, DC. Rob Carr/Getty Images

During Monday’s interview revealing why he stepped down as the Los Angeles Lakers’ president, Magic Johnson gave some potential insight regarding the team’s offseason plans. With several star players set to hit free agency this offseason, L.A. is hoping to land one with the max salary slot they have available under the salary cap.

Johnson named Kawhi Leonard and Kyrie Irving when asked on ESPN’s “First Take” which superstar the Lakers should target. The Hall of Famer noted that Kevin Durant, who will arguably be the best free agent on the market, is largely speculated to be eyeing the New York Knicks.

It’s certainly not news that the Lakers would want to sign either Leonard or Irving. Los Angeles isn’t thought to be the No.1 choice of any top free agent, and the organization would likely be glad to sign any of the All-Stars that are looking for new contracts.

Leonard has been as good as anyone this postseason, carrying the Toronto Raptors to the Eastern Conference Finals. The Los Angeles Clippers are the favorites to sign the former NBA Finals MVP, but Johnson believes the Lakers have a real shot to acquire the L.A. native.

Magic Johnson was going to target Kawhi Leonard and Kyrie Irving for the one max slot the Lakers had this summer. The feeling is Kevin Durant is going to New York or staying in Golden State. LeBron James was (and likely still is) going to be apart of the recruiting meeting.
— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) May 20, 2019

There have been rumors that Irving will consider reuniting with LeBron James, despite asking to be traded from the Cleveland Cavaliers just two years ago. The New York Knicks and Boston Celtics might have an even better shot to sign the point guard.

Johnson didn’t make mention of Klay Thompson. It’s been speculated for a few years that the Lakers are the most logical landing spot for the shooting guard if he ever decides to leave the Golden State Warriors. Thompson’s ability to shoot three-pointers and play without the ball might make him the perfect teammate for James.

Thompson is expected to re-sign with Golden State.

The Lakers are focused on creating an immediate championship contender around James. That could mean making a risky signing, such as giving Jimmy Butler a max contract, if the top stars all pass on Los Angeles. The organization will also continue to pursue a trade for Anthony Davis.

Johnson shot down any rumors that the Lakers might consider trading LeBron James. He acknowledged that some people close to owner Jeanie Buss have suggested Los Angeles should trade the superstar, but he laughed at the idea that James could be playing for another team next season.