The Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly dropped out of the running for veteran forward DeMar DeRozan, while the Orlando Magic welcome back center Nikola Vucevic and league insiders applaud the Brooklyn Nets’ summer moves.
Lakers Shift Focus Away From DeRozan
Sports Illustrated’s Ryan Ward, citing ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, reported that DeRozan is not expected to land in Los Angeles after being waived by Sacramento. The decision dampens years of speculation that the Compton native would eventually suit up for the Lakers.
The organization is said to be concentrating on a younger core built around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Los Angeles has already added Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton this off-season, while moving on from LeBron James, Rui Hachimura and Marcus Smart. According to Ward, Jonathan Kuminga remains a target, though making the numbers work would require creativity. The front office is also looking for an additional center after dealing Deandre Ayton.
Vucevic Reunites With Magic
Five years after Orlando traded him to Chicago, Nikola Vucevic is back with the Magic. During his introductory press conference, the two-time All-Star, now 35, said joining a contender in a family-friendly city made the choice “pretty easy.”
Vucevic spent nine seasons in Orlando before the 2021 deal that helped the franchise acquire Franz Wagner. This time he is expected to provide veteran depth behind Wendell Carter Jr. rather than anchor the offense.
Nets Draw Positive Reviews
The Nets’ offseason has been well received across the league, Brian Lewis of the New York Post wrote. Brooklyn retained DayRon Sharpe and Josh Minott, added defensive guard Keon Ellis, and traded for Julius Randle while also improving its draft position.
One NBA agent told Lewis the Randle acquisition “will be good with his own team,” underscoring optimism that the forward can thrive in Brooklyn. While the Nets did not secure a marquee free agent, they have bolstered the roster and preserved financial flexibility heading into the season.
Source: Hoops Wire
