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The Los Angeles Lakers are eyeing another championship run in the 2024-25 season, even if their roster is a bit top-heavy. With their superstar trio of LeBron James, Luka Dončić, and Austin Reaves leading the charge, the Lakers are undoubtedly in title contention. However, there’s one glaring concern: their lack of depth and sufficient reserve talent to fully support these stars.
This imbalance could lead to changes in the coming offseason, with the Lakers’ general manager, Rob Pelinka, having a variety of options for navigating free agency and possibly taking advantage of the upcoming trade market. Pelinka is likely to make moves that can bolster the Lakers’ roster, especially as the team is in a prime position to compete for championships in the near future with LeBron and Luka at the helm.
One key area where Pelinka could improve the roster is by targeting seasoned veterans who can provide both leadership and valuable postseason experience. And there’s one player who might fit this role perfectly: Kyle Lowry.
Though the 38-year-old point guard is entering the final years of his career, he could still be a major asset to a championship contender like the Lakers. Lowry, a 6-time All-Star and 2016 All-NBA Third Team selection, is known for his defensive prowess, basketball IQ, and leadership, qualities that could add depth to the Lakers’ lineup. Despite his age, Lowry’s experience and two-way game make him a solid candidate for spot minutes in a system built for deep playoff runs.
This past season, Lowry averaged 3.9 points, 2.7 assists, and 0.9 steals for the Philadelphia 76ers, who finished with a disappointing 24-58 record. Lowry appeared in just 35 games, but even in the twilight of his career, he still maintained a solid 36.8% shooting from three and posted a 109 defensive rating per 100 possessions—numbers that indicate he can still contribute effectively when called upon.
Given the Lakers’ current window of opportunity with LeBron and Luka leading the charge, Lowry could be the perfect low-risk, high-reward addition. A one-year deal at a minimum salary could be exactly what Lowry is looking for—a final chance to add to his legacy with a second NBA championship.
The idea of Lowry teaming up with LeBron and Dončić in a supporting role seems promising. Under head coach JJ Redick, who brings a fresh perspective to the Lakers’ system, Lowry could be the savvy veteran who knows exactly when to step up and provide clutch minutes in big games. Not only would this strengthen the team’s depth, but Lowry’s ability to handle the ball, manage tempo, and defend would be invaluable during the playoff grind.
While his best years are behind him, Kyle Lowry’s legacy as a champion and floor general makes him a tempting free-agent target for a team like the Lakers, who are focused on competing for another championship. If Lowry can bring his leadership and solid contributions to Los Angeles, it could very well be the missing piece the Lakers need to raise the Larry O’Brien trophy once more.