Point guard Deron Williams is one of the most highly-coveted players in free agency. Williams could very well not return to the New Jersey Nets and might seek a team with a likelier chance to win an NBA championship.
Surprisingly, the Lakers are unlikely to play any role in trying to land Williams. Mark Medina of the Los Angeles Times has the story.
As far as the Lakers are concerned, Williams appeared well aware that the Lakers' payroll is limited.
"I know they don't have any money to just go out and sign me," said Williams, who has a player option for $17.8 million next season with New Jersey. "It'll have to be some kind of deal."
Most likely the Nets would have to sign Williams before the Lakers could have any hopes of landing him. Los Angeles has to shed salary cap to have any chance at landing a marquee free agent, meaning they'd have to deal one of either Andrew Bynum or Pau Gasol. Also, it's hard to imagine a backcourt of Williams and Bryant would be successful because of how much each of them need the ball.
Basically, don't expect Williams to end up in Los Angeles unless some crazy stuff happens.
Talk about whether the Nets should trade Williams to the Lakers with New Jersey fans over at Nets Daily. Discuss if Williams would go well in Los Angeles with Bryant at Silver Screen and Roll.
Check out the SB Nation NBA YouTube channel and see if you'd be willing to subscribe to the videos.