NBA Rumors: Lakers "Covet" Eastern Conference Star

Maybe we've learned the reason that the Los Angeles Lakers refuse to pull the trigger on that rumored deal for Myles Turner and Buddy Hield, two floor-spacers that they could desperately use: it seems they're waiting and salivating over the potential availability of another Eastern Conference All-Star.

The Lakers "are known to covet" Bradley Beal, per @ChrisBHaynes pic.twitter.com/k70eUZa9Xf
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) November 10, 2022

According to Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report, the Lakers "are known to covet" Bradley Beal of the Washington Wizards. "Going after the 10-year veteran would only be an option if Beal were to request a trade," writes Haynes, "a tactic he has been reluctant to exercise."

Beal signed a max extension of 5-years, $251M this summer with the Wizards. He's off to a bit of a slow start, averaging 21.6 points, 5.7 assists and 3.6 rebounds, all down from his normal numbers.

The return on such a deal, if it were to ever materialize this season, would include (in addition to draft picks) Russell Westbrook and his expiring $47M contract. Russ had his run in D.C. only a couple of years ago, when he averaged a triple-double for the season, at 22.2 points, 11.5 rebounds and 11.7 assists.

Meanwhile, Westbrook's rejuvenation on the Lakers' second unit these past couple of weeks has actually led to the team receiving calls about his availability, according to Haynes. Talks, however, are not at the serious stage on any fronts, he says.

Photo: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports