The NBA’s version of speed dating started at a frenetic pace. Executives from all 30 teams called prospective free agents beginning at 9:01 pm. PT on Thursday both to express interest and set up future meetings.
Unfortunately for the Lakers, they were stood up before any first dates.
First, the Lakers could not land a meeting with Kevin Durant, stripping them of any hope to land the seven-time NBA All-Star to replace Kobe Bryant. Second, the Lakers received no indication Miami Heat center Hassan Whiteside would consider them. Third, it currently remains unclear if the Lakers can land a meeting with Toronto’s DeMar DeRozan or Atlanta’s Al Horford.