Bayless: Fifth NBA title for LeBron James ‘looking dimmer’ after Beal trade
Beal #Beal
Although they got swept by the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals, the Los Angeles Lakers appeared to have plenty to be optimistic about heading into this offseason.
There are rumors they may reload in a major way by obtaining a major piece such as Chris Paul or even Kyrie Irving.
However, Paul is now involved in a major trade that was agreed to on Sunday. According to reports, the Phoenix Suns will send Paul, Landry Shamet and draft compensation to the Washington Wizards for three-time All-Star guard Bradley Beal.
The trade could instantly take the Suns from potential championship contenders to co-favorites in the West along with the defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, this trade, depending on how it is finalized, could take the Lakers out of the running for Paul.
Commentator Skip Bayless, an alleged critic of LeBron James, tweeted that as a result, the four-time MVP’s chances of winning another world title are looking “dimmer and dimmer.”
It is very premature to prognosticate just how much of a chance James and the Lakers will have at another Larry O’Brien trophy next year until all personnel moves by all teams are final this offseason.
MORE:
Stein: Lakers’ plan A is to sign Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura and Chris Paul
Report: Kyle Kuzma could reunite with the Lakers this summer
Did LeBron James fire back at Nuggets head coach Michael Malone?
Lakers may look to trade No. 17 pick in a package for starter-level player
Buha: Lakers have discussed re-signing D’Angelo Russell on two-year deal