Rumors abound that the Los Angeles Lakers will make a big splash this summer in an attempt to maximize what remains of LeBron James’ time as a high-level NBA player.
Most of the talk has centered around Kyrie Irving and, more recently, Chris Paul. Both are good friends of James and have been linked to the Lakers in the past. To a lesser extent, there has also been a bit of buzz about them possibly trading for Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young.
But former NBA player and current ESPN personality Kendrick Perkins thinks the Purple and Gold will instead end up with veteran star James Harden, who is a member of the Philadelphia 76ers.
.@KendrickPerkins is predicting some BIG moves this summer đ
(via NBA Today) pic.twitter.com/1rrctlfIMy
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) June 14, 2023
On the surface, some may think Harden would be a good third star to ease the load on the aging James. However, he has a poor track record in big playoff games, especially in elimination games, and many have questioned his dedication, especially when it comes to staying in shape.
In addition, he will be 34 years of age next season. The Lakers need to stay young, not get older.
Harden has a player option for next season he can turn down to become a free agent. Currently, the hot rumor is he wants to return to the Houston Rockets.