It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know where the Lakers need to improve. Getting Luka Doncic gave 40-year-old LeBron James the help he needs in attack. But that trade also got rid of their defensive anchor in Anthony Davis. And they’ve been struggling ever since. The Lakers exceeded the first apron again, but remained below the second apron, allowing roster flexibility. And they’ll need everything in their arsenal to bring in someone to fill that void.

Bron’s inflated salary is a major concern. It takes major guts to have that rookie-like twinkle in your eye in your 23rd year as an NBA player. But at the same time, his numbers have been lacking since the glory days. And they aren’t enough to justify a 2-year, $101,355,998 contract with a guaranteed $48,728,845 in a year they didn’t even make it through the first round. Do they get rid of him? Bonne chance finding a replacement with the same aura. So, how do they deal with their salary situation?

The easiest way would be for James to take a paycut. To be honest, Rich Paul would give away his left arm before such a deal takes place. But there’s a chance it could happen. You see, teams utilize the TPMLE to add quality players without exceeding the second tax apron, which imposes stricter financial penalties and roster-building limitations. But considering the Lakers’ current situation, with 0 first-round picks this decade, they don’t really have another choice. And to make the Lakers eligible for it, Bron would have to take a paycut.

But he’ll only do so for three free agents – Nickeil Alexander-Walker, John Collins, and Myles Turner. That is, at least according to the Athletic:

It’s very like the King to prioritize the team over himself. And this is not the first time he’s doing so. Getting either of them will do the Lakers’ defense a world of good as all three saw their roles expand defensively this season, with notable impacts in team defensive ratings and clutch-time assignments.

But well, it’s not an ideal world. LeBron James might be focused on winning by prioritizing those three, but Rob Pelinka doesn’t see it that way. Apparently, he has other plans, which involve targeting free agents who don’t fit LBJ’s narrative. And the King might not be too pleased with what the Lakers GM has in store.

Rob Pelinka eyeing Brook Lopez to partner LeBron James and Co.

For a 37-year-old, Lopez has only missed 9 games in the last 3 seasons. Most his age would be considering sipping Pina Coladas in Cancun. But not Brook. The burly and athletic 7-foot-1 veteran center will be a free agent this summer, with the Bucks looking for a massive overhaul to keep Giannis Antetokounmpo. And according to Gery Woelfel, the Lakers are interested in him.

“Brook Lopez will be an unrestricted free agent this summer. So, how much interest will there be for the 37-year-old center? “There’ll be plenty of interest in him,” an NBA executive responded before cynically adding, “I’m sure the Lakers have already talked to him.” The writer tweeted.

It’s possible that Lopez would be able to be signed for a price the Lakers can afford under the salary cap. And that looks like MONEY for Rob Pelinka. Another masterclass on the cards. Coach Redick didn’t play either Alex Len or Jaxson Hayes in that game against the Wolves. You know which one – where he made no subs for the whole second half. But Lopez not falling into LeBron’s list might upset the 40-year-old a little bit.

It’s funny to see how all of this played out. For LeBron James, the idea of winning involves Alexander-Walker, Collins, or Turner. For Pelinka, it reportedly includes Lopez. But for James, Doncic wasn’t part of the plan either, just like it was for Pelinka. And look how that turned out. Do you see the veteran center at the LakeShow next season?