NBA Rumors: Forgotten Stars Looking To Revive Basketball Career Next Season

While most are eagerly awaiting the next stop of some unrestricted free agents, several almost-forgotten NBA stars have surprisingly come out of nowhere. Names such as Amar'e Stoudemire, Monta Ellis and Richard Jefferson certainly ring a bell, although some would likely consider them as semi-retired. Each had their time to shine in the league and now they hope to get another crack to show the world that they still got game.

And from the looks of it, there is one team that these players may be aiming for – the Los Angeles Lakers. According to Jordan Schultz of ESPN, Stoudemire, and Ellis will be working out with at least five NBA teams in Las Vegas on July 8. Both are reportedly healthy and are hoping to sign with a contending team such as the Lakers. Aware that the purple and gold squad needs to fill in their vacant roster slots, the two could make sense if Rob Pelinka and Frank Vogel see them as good fits.

For his part, Jefferson formally announced on his Twitter account that he is officially coming out of retirement and play for one more year. He did not mention any team he was aiming for although the Lakers seem to make sense. At 39, he could be a long shot, although it may all depend on the kind of conditioning the former NBA champion is in. He has played for eight different teams since entering the league back in 2001.

Of the three, Ellis seems to make more sense since the Lakers need to beef up their backcourt. He is also the youngest of the three at 33. Other teams could also consider the NBA Most Improved Player of 2007 who had stints with the Golden State Warriors, Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks and the Indiana Pacers. It all depends on how fit he is after sitting out two seasons.

Stoudemire may be a big question mark with most likely concerned on his health. He has had knee issues in the past and his age (36) is likely to raise eyebrows. He was one of the prominent NBA players in the league, having his best years with the Phoenix Suns (2002-10). From there, everything just went haywire for the 9th overall pick of the 2002 NBA Draft. If he should be picked up, he is likely to come off the bench. Some or all of them could make the Lakers roster although the team is expected to prioritize younger and healthier free agents first this summer.