The Lakers were once expected to become major players during the 2018 free agency class. That no longer appears to be the case.
According to ESPN.com, Los Angeles has now shifted its focus to the 2019 class after becoming "more realistic" about snatching superstars during this year's upcoming class.
The report did clarify that the Lakers haven't abandoned hope of landing top-end free agents this year, but have become increasingly interested in the 2019 class, which could include Jimmy Butler, Klay Thompson and Kawhi Leonard.
DeMarcus Cousins, Paul George and LeBron James highlight this year's crop of free agents, but the report stated that George and James seem unlikely to sign with Los Angeles, and the team is balking at Cousins after he recently tore his Achilles.
The Lakers already possess a potentially strong young nucleus with Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, Josh Hart, Julius Randle and reserve guard Jordan Clarkson. The Lakers likely won't keep them all moving forward, but having another year to flesh out which ones they want to build around could be beneficial.
Sitting at 21-31, 11th in the Western Conference standings, Los Angeles could also add another highly-touted player in the 2018 NBA Draft. Though the playoff seem unlikely this season, the Lakers' future seems bright with so many young players paired with possible big spending.
