REPORTS: Knicks Targeting Two Crucial Lakers Stars

Published 07/31/2021, 1:39 PM EDT

LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers dominated the headlines with their recent blockbuster trade. In a deal with Washington, they signed All-Star Russell Westbrook. In exchange, they gave up Kyle Kuzma, Montrezl Harrell, and their 2021 draft pick.

However, now, the roles seemed to have reversed. Two Lakers stars seem to have caught the eyes of New York. With the Knicks having a successful season, they are looking to add firepower to their roster.

After a playoff berth in a long time, Knicks will look to do whatever it takes to keep up that momentum. They will aim at assembling a capable team by adding as many stars as they can. Moreover, they have the cap space to do so.

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Why a Russell Westbrook Trade Doesn’t Solve the Los Angeles Lakers’ Biggest Problem

Knicks interested in Schroder and Horton-Tucker

Reports claim that the New York Knicks are interested in acquiring Talen Horton Tucker from the Lakers. In addition, they also have their eyes on Dennis Schroder.

Report: Knicks linked to Lakers guard Talen Horton-Tucker https://t.co/rkByAQwCEA
— NBA Central (@TheNBACentral) July 31, 2021

Despite an embarrassing playoff run, the Knicks had a successful season. They made it to the playoffs after a long time. Moreover, young stars like Julius Randle and RJ Barrett came in as key finds this season.

On the other hand, LeBron James and the Lakers could not defend their title this season. New signing Dennis Schroder disappointed as he averaged 14 points on 30% from downtown. However, Hoton-Tucker has been impressive throughout the season.

If the Knicks somehow manage to land these 2 stars, it will help them in a big way. They need stars alongside Randle and Barrett. Both of them are capable scorers with a drive to win. Likewise, that matches the Knicks’ current energy.

Can LeBron James and the Lakers afford to lose their 2 stars?

Given the signing of former MVP, Russell Westbrook, the Lakers are a stronger side. With Schroder being the point guard, Lakers can let him go.

However, Horton-Tucker is someone the Lakers will try to keep. He is an extremely talented scorer who is yet to develop into full potential. Moreover, he is only 20 years old.

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So, the Lakers will try to keep him in their roster without a question. He averaged 9 points off the bench and shot 39% from three, something the Lakers need.

Now, looking at this, LeBron James and the Lakers may try to alter the trade and send just Schroder to the Knicks.

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Would you like to see Horton-Tucker play with LeBron James next season?

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Written by:

Anuj Talwalkar is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. He is a student studying at NM College in Mumbai, aspiring to pursue sports management to follow his love for sports. Anuj started following the NBA last year, and he loves to combine his passion for writing with his understanding of basketball.

REPORTS: Knicks Targeting Two Crucial Lakers Stars

Knicks interested in Schroder and Horton-Tucker

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