Considering how things are going for the Los Angeles Lakers right now, with a 22-3 record after 25 games, it’s hard to imagine any other reality being better than the one they are living in right now. But as it goes in the NBA, there were several sliding doors moments that could have changed the Lakers.
One of those sliding doors moments was Kawhi Leonard’s decision to join the L.A. Clippers after the Clippers traded for Paul George, deciding against joining the Lakers or staying with the Toronto Raptors. But until yesterday, we were unaware of the details on another potential moment that would have changed the complexion of the Lakers.
D’Angelo Russell was a serious back-up plan for the Lakers, according to The Athletic’s Anthony Slater.
Russell only wanted serious bidders and, sources say, he had three: The Lakers — wouldn’t that have been quite the reunion? — nearing a potential $100 million offer but in limbo until Kawhi Leonard made his choice, the Wolves, up over $100 million but still needing to create cap room to get to his max, and the Warriors, offering the full max in a complicated sign-and-trade involving Durant.
Although Russell would have had an opportunity to play for the Lakers under a new regime and with two new star players, the checkered past involving Russell and the Lakers is likely a big reason why he decided to take the bigger check to go play with Golden State.
Had Russell waited, the Lakers team they currently have would look a lot different. Danny Green probably wouldn’t be on the team and LeBron James almost certainly wouldn’t be leading the NBA in assists. But considering the high level of basketball the Lakers are playing right now, it’s hard to imagine how things could have worked out any better for the.
