Well before their season came to an end, the Los Angeles Lakers cleared an ample amount of salary cap space to sign two max-level free agents this summer. The initial thought was Paul George, LeBron James and DeMarcus Cousins would be the focal points.
When Cousins tore his Achilles tendon, it left George and James as this year’s marquee free agents. For George, he’s been tied to the Lakers since his days with the Indiana Pacers. Matters came to a head last summer, when George was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
There was a belief a successful season and strong showing in the playoffs would entice George to re-sign with the Thunder.