Lakers News and Rumors: Could Luol Deng Be Headed to Los Angeles This Summer?

By Paul John Rivera| Apr 09, 2014

The Los Angeles Lakers will look to make several moves this summer. Reports indicate that the team is planning to use a portion of their cap space to acquire an All-Star-caliber player in the offseason—possibly Cleveland Cavaliers forward Luol Deng.

New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony is reportedly the team's top free agency target, while Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kevin Love is their top trade target.

However, if the Lakers fail to acquire either Anthony or Love this summer, USA Today's Sam Amick suggested that Los Angeles could make a run at signing Deng.

A multiple-time NBA All-Star, Deng, who was acquired by the Cavaliers in a trade with the Chicago Bulls earlier this year, will become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

Deng, who is averaging 16.1 points and 5.8 rebounds per game this season, has not ruled out re-signing with the Cavaliers, but the 28-year-old forward is expected to listen to all offers, especially from teams with good chances of winning a title next season.

Deng could be a good fit on both ends of the floor for the Lakers. The 10-year veteran could be another scoring threat alongside superstar guard Kobe Bryant, who is expected to become fully healthy in time for next season.

While adding another scoring threat next season, Deng would also provide an upgrade on the defensive end of the floor. The Lakers need defensive help after allowing 109.5 points per game this season—the second worst in the league this season.

Aside from Deng, reports also indicate that the Lakers are also planning to make a strong push to acquire Toronto Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry, who will also become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

Lakers forward Pau Gasol will also hit free agency and it is still unknown at this point whether or not the Lakers are planning to resign the 33-year-old center this offseason.

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