NBA Rumors: Nikola Vucevic Could Be Third Star Lakers Are Looking For

Until last season, Nikola Vucevic hardly got attention in the NBA. All that changed dramatically during the 2018-19 NBA season, a breakout year that has captured the attention of several ballclubs. The Dallas Mavericks have been repeatedly mentioned outside his current team (Orlando Magic) although more are expected to come forward this summer. That list could include the Los Angeles Lakers.

So far, the Lakers are in deep search of that third NBA star to join forces with LeBron James, Kyle Kuzma and the impending coming of Anthony Davis. While it initially makes sense, the Lakers may have to make some adjustments on their end. Of the mentioned players, James could be forced to slide down to the guard position while Kuzma would take the small forward spot.

But before studying those scenarios, the initial question is can the Lakers squeeze in the 16th overall pick of the 2011 NBA draft in the roster. The Lakers will have at least $23.7 million to spend so it will be interesting if Rob Pelinka plans to pitch anything to the 28-year-old center, Lakers Nation reported. If not as a starter, Vucevic could come off the bench although that may not make much sense. The 7-footer is obvious a starter so playing backup may not be that appealing.

But then again, Vucevic may not mind if that translates into an NBA champion ring. Several top players have done that in the past so the Montenegrin could consider that as well. However, it all depends on what is on the table for him this summer.

As mentioned in a previous post, Vucevic wants to know first what the Orlando Magic will be offering. After a breakout season, it hardly comes as a surprise that the Magic will try to dangle something to the 2019 NBA All-Star. And even if he thumbs down the Magic offer, there are other teams expected to be hot on his tail. That includes the Dallas Mavericks, a team that is also showing promise for the 2019-20 NBA wars. The Mavs could offer him a five-year contract worth $140.6 million, possibly adding him to a mix that includes Kristaps Porzingis and rising star guard Luka Doncic.

Like the Lakers however, any offer thrown Vucevic's way will depend on how Rick Carlisle and company can secure Porzingis. Once that is settled, the Mavs and Vucevic can sit down and do the numbers crunch to see if both sides can strike a deal.