Are the Lakers reuniting with Doncic? Report suggests L.A. could pursue Irving, facing competition from the Rockets and Timberwolves

On June 10, a number of fans assume the Lakers will mostly keep their squad intact this offseason. Yet the truth is that by the time the new season starts in October, the Lakers' roster could see major shakeups. Brandon Robinson, a well-known journalist, reports that Kyrie Irving—a nine-time All-Star guard now playing for the Dallas Mavericks—might be headed to Los Angeles.

There is widespread doubt that a backcourt of Doncic and Reaves can contend for a championship. Adding to the uncertainty, LeBron James may leave, increasing the variables at play.

Robinson wrote: "The Detroit Pistons are a strong suitor for Irving. In addition, the Minnesota Timberwolves, Houston Rockets, and Los Angeles Lakers are also on the list of teams pursuing him."

Robinson also recently revealed that the Lakers have privately weighed their options: if James departs, the team would be interested in reuniting Doncic with Irving.

Irving and Doncic previously played together for several seasons with the Mavericks, leading an otherwise modest roster to the 2024 NBA Finals. Irving missed the end of last season due to an Achilles tendon tear; now at 34, he still possesses considerable on-court ability.

It has been 16 months since the Mavericks traded Doncic to the Lakers. Even though Rookie of the Year Flagg has shown superstar potential, the team's future direction remains unclear. Irving has two years left on his contract (with a player option for the 2027-28 season), and his timeline does not align with the team's new plans. How Dallas handles the star guard has become a major point of interest.

Before last season's injury, Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, shooting 47.3% from the field and a stellar 40.1% from three-point range. He has since returned to the court, appearing at the TOP100 training camp.