If the latest rumors are true, the Lakers now have a tempting path to sign Kevin Durant

Los Angeles Lakers fans are undoubtedly paying attention to the NBA playoffs, and are also thinking about how the team will return to the Finals. And it all started this summer - they had the opportunity to build a roster around newly introduced stars Luca Doncic and LeBron James.

However, LeBron James has reportedly ruled out the possibility of a salary cut, which has made the Lakers' operation more difficult. Originally they could have used the full $14.1 million to sign one or two veterans to consolidate the lineup, but now this road seems to be blocked.

However, in addition to using the $5.6 million tax-paying middle class to sign a starting center, the Lakers may still complete a big deal this summer. Although there have been few rumors about the Lakers and Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant, considering Durant and LeBron's relationship, perhaps the Lakers should take action.

The possibility of the Lakers getting Durant: A hypothetical trading plan

If Durant joins the Lakers, a three-party deal may be required involving the Brooklyn Nets. The Lakers sent Hachimura Hiramiya, Gaibu Vincent, Dorian Finney Smith, Dalton Kneckett and Maxi Cleber, with the 2031 unprotected first-round pick and 2032 draft pick swap rights. The Suns will receive Hachimura Shiraki, Finney Smith, Vincent and the above draft picks; the Nets will receive Cleber's expiration contract and receive Kneckett last year's No. 18 pick.

LeBron and Durant have faced many careers, but have never been a teammate in the NBA. This summer may be the last chance for the two to join forces.

Now, a favorable signal may be emerging: The Athletic reporter Kelly Ico mentioned that the Suns may have just lowered Durant's trading asking price.

Can the Lakers successfully sign Durant?

If the news is true, it will open the door to multiple teams, including the Lakers - previously not seen as Durant's potential next home. Of course, the Houston Rockets, which have multiple draft picks from the Suns, and the San Antonio Spurs, which hold the No. 14 picks and young assets this year, may still be the Suns' preferred trading targets.

But it should be noted that Durant is about to enter the contract year. He can send a signal to his unfavorite team through his agent that "deal means refusing to renew the contract", which means that if he wants to go to Los Angeles, he can theoretically force the transaction to be concluded.

Overall, the Lakers do have the possibility of joining the Durant battle. While this requires sacrificing roster depth and final assets, nothing is possible if Durant is eager to play for the Lakers.