Report: Lakers want to make ‘big run’ at Paul George

The Los Angeles Lakers will be looking to make a major splash this offseason, and that will mean trying to convince guys like Kevin Durant and LeBron James to sign with them as free agents. It could also involve trying to trade for a superstar.

According to Bill Simmons, the Lakers have interest in trying to acquire Paul George from the Indiana Pacers. George is under contract for two more seasons with a player option for the third, but Simmons believes an offer of a high lottery pick and then some would at least get Indiana’s attention.

Also hearing that the Lakers want to make a BIG run at Paul George with their top-3 pick plus other stuff. (Not that they'd get him…) — Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) May 4, 2016

If the Lakers offered Indy their top-3 pick plus Russell for PG13… I mean… I don't think Indy says yes but it's def a meeting. — Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) May 4, 2016

Simmons adds that both the Lakers and Boston Celtics want to deal their draft picks for impact players and a chance to win immediately. L.A.’s pick is obviously far more enticing.

With the salary cap set to increase, George’s average annual salary of $18.5 million over the next two seasons is a bargain. It would probably take more than one first-round pick plus a guy like D’Angelo Russell to convince the Pacers to deal him.

George was virtually unstoppable during Indiana’s opening-round playoff loss to the Toronto Raptors. Considering he suffered a gruesome leg injury (video here) less than two years ago, it’s incredible how he has bounced back. The Pacers are more likely to build around the 26-year-old than they are to trade him.