“CJ McCollum is being recruited by LeBron James”: NBA insider speculates how high Lakers GM Rob Pelinka is on the Blazers star

The Lakers are looking for strong reinforcements to support LeBron James and Anthony Davis and CJ McCollum tops their priority list.

A lot of people thought that the Los Angeles Lakers had the team to retain the NBA Championship this season. But after a decent start, the Purple and Gold army faltered big time.

With LeBron James entering the twilight of this career, the Lakers will be looking to add a more talented roster to challenge for the Championship next season.

There have been rumors of several stars joining the Lakers as a third star. But at this point securing a third star alongside LeBron and Anthony Davis is very unlikely.

However, there are chances that there will be some strong options for the Lakers this offseason. While Damian Lillard may not be a viable choice for them but his Trail Blazers teammate CJ McCollum may fit in perfectly.

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According to CBS Sports’ Sam Quinn, the rumors are true and the Lakers are indeed enquiring about the Blazers guard. McCollum looks like a great pick for the reigning NBA Champions.

He fits the bill as the third scoring option in the team. McCollum also offers them that offensive firepower that they desperately need. He shoots 39% from behind the arc throughout his career and can be the man to lead the bench for the Lakers.

The Lakers may opt for a trade including defensively strong players to lure away CJ McCollum

However, signing him will be a concern for the Lakers as McCollum has been with the Blazers for his entire career. He also has a contract extension coming up for next season.

So luring him away will be tough as he is also very well connected with Lillard. The Blazers will do everything in their power to keep their superstar happy.

But the Blazers are not going to put up a team that will even get near to Championship. Also, the Blazers had the second worst defensive record in the NBA completely in contrast to the Lakers.

Hence the Purple and Gold may work their way with a trade as the Blazers need some defensive pieces. The Lakers could include defensively superior players like Kentavious Caldwell Pope and Kyle Kuzma in a trade.

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They could also opt for a sign and trade deal for Dennis Schroder. The Blazers will get a player who may not be as good a scorer as CJ but he is solid on the offense and great in defence. This could mean a win-win situation for both sides.